Eighty-One

Lenora

CJ suggested that we go for ice cream to help with my throat, and away from the pack house, I felt a semblance of peace, away from all the toxicity in the pack house.

Although it was only a small gesture, I appreciated the fact he cared enough about me to suggest this. He took my hand and strolled to the ice cream parlor located on the other side of town.

It was useless telling him what India did because the witch was going to deny it.

We spent some time together in the ice cream parlor, and while I was staring at the chalkboard menu high on the wall that listed specialty desserts and their prices, CJ wrapped his arms around me from behind.

Everything became an echo in the background: the whir of the blender, the customers in line, and the jingle of the cash register.

Even though I knew I was being foolish for staying with CJ despite the glaring warnings, I couldn't help it. I was hopelessly in love with him. I didn't know if it was my age, and lack of maturity, but all I kn