Ava “Can we talk, Ava?” Even now, seeing Chris’s green eyes reflecting the sunlight and his hair tousled by the wind, it hurt. Maybe it hurt even more, seeing him like this. “Of course,” I finally managed, somehow keeping my voice steady despite the fact that I almost felt sick just looking at
“We can’t. You know we can’t,” I said, my voice shaking despite my best efforts. I drew in a few calming breaths before continuing. “Chris, I was thinking last night, and… I made a decision.” Confusion flickered across his face. “A decision.” Meeting his eyes again, I tried to ignore how my hear
Chris Lily glided into the foyer of my Packhouse apartment, looking beautiful in a sky blue dress with a string of pearls around her neck. She was a stunning girl, truly—but I wasn’t here because I wanted to be. I had invited her here only at Ava’s request; she, along with the Elders, had been a
“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