“It’s alright,” she said. “I understand.” I swallowed. “I want you to know that you’re very beautiful, and wonderful company,” I said, reaching across the table to touch her hand. “But yes. You’re right. And I’m sorry it has to be this way, but I don’t know if I could marry anyone while I’m still
Chris I stood frozen in the hallway, watching Lily’s retreating form as the echo of her sobs faded into silence. Only then did my actions finally settle in. What had I done? In my anger and confusion over Ava’s involvement with the Elders, I had lashed out—unfairly taking out my hurt and betraya
Lily stopped beside the fountain, looking up at the ornate statue. “This is a beautiful garden,” she said softly. “These gardens have been tended by our finest botanists for centuries,” I replied. “I’ll admit, though, I don’t come here often.” “Why not?” she asked, casting me a sidelong glance.
Ava The sun was still low in the sky, barely even cresting the horizon as I wandered along the path. It was still early morning, but I couldn’t sleep; I couldn’t stop thinking about… well, everything. I had decided to go on a walk to get some fresh air and clear my head, without any real destina
“As long as I can stop at home and change, the cafe sounds perfect.” … The raspberry danish tasted beautifully sweet as I took another bite, followed by a sip of my frothy cappuccino. I leaned back in my chair, chewing slowly and savoring the perfection on my tongue. “Thank you for this, Leona
Ava It was only moments after I saw Chris retreat inside that I found myself hurring up the steps to the Packhouse’s entrance, my heart pounding in my ears. Leonard’s words replayed over and over in my mind—there was a way for Chris and I to be together, if that was truly what we both wanted. Bu
I trailed off, feeling myself choke up with the tears that burned at the backs of my eyes and the bottom of my throat. My palms began to itch, and I clamped my fingers even tighter around the chair as if that would somehow help. Slowly, Chris turned back to face me. His anger was still there, but
Ava My lips were still tingling from the searing intensity of Chris’s kiss when the harsh sound of the door creaking open shattered the blissful haze surrounding us. We broke apart with wide eyes, our heads swiveling in unison toward the figure now standing frozen in the open doorway. Olivia. He