The Ruined Dress

The sharp winged butterflies in my tummy magnify tenfold as Seth rolls the car to a stop along the curb outside Blade's home. I smooth my sweating palms against my thighs and stare at the single-level brick home he's occupied for years. Once upon a time, I was supposed to live here too.

I lift my phone and text Blade I'm here. Then, I unclip my seat belt and reach for the door handle. Seth touches my thigh and I whip my head in his direction.

"Do you want me to come with you?" he asks, gently stroking me.

A small laugh falls from my lips. "No, I don't think that'll go down too well."

I leave the car and walk around to the trunk. I open it up and retrieve the little red box from the top pocket of my suitcase. Blade appears on the front porch as I close the trunk. I gulp and offer a small wave. He doesn't wave back. He broods, his dismay wafting off him in powerful waves, sucking the life out of me. I should have come alone. I approach and it takes all the energy I have to keep my spi