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“You’re comfortable with the cello for the first time after a long time, I believe that’s reason enough.”
“Will Ari join us?”
“No. I’m pitching her back to your parents' house as we speak.”
Sure enough, Leo is trying to drag a mildly pissed Ari, who keeps chattering away.
No kidding. My sister and I can talk for entire nights. Neither of us has the physical ability to end a conversation and simply shut up.
I smile. “Pretty sure she’s sullying Leo’s prim-and-proper ears with more profanity than he can endure.”
“Hendersoncould use some real-world education.” He places a hand on the small of my back and guides me down the stairs, his touch sending a shock wave through my clothes and heating my skin. “I’ll see you at the car in fifteen?”
I stroke one of the flowers as I stare up at him. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were asking me on a date.”
He stares down at me with those cryptic eyes that somehow feel too familiar now. Too raw. Years ago, Eli was an idea, a deity, and a nonsensical idolization.
For the first time, he feels real. Close enough to touch and smell and breathe in.
“Do youwanta date, Mrs. King?”
“Maybe I do.”
“Then maybe I’m making your wish come true.”
He releases me by the entrance to the hallway, and the lack of his touch is electrifying. I open my mouth to say something but close it when I realize I’m speechless.
As soon as I’m inside the changing room, I grab my phone to take pictures of the flowers.
I pause when I see another two texts from Eli from around the time I walked on stage.
Tin Man
You look stunning.
My wife is many infuriating things, but she’s undeniably beautiful.
I hold on to the chair as heat slithers through me and wraps its greedy fingers around my neck like a noose.
What is he doing?
What’s this complete change from a certified bastard to…a flirt? Anactualhusband?
This doesn’t play in favor of my latest revenge plan.
Maybe he’s also plotting something himself? Like breaking me to pieces once and for all?
If that’s the case, I’ll drag him with me to the depths of hell even if it’s the last thing I do.
My phone vibrates again and I hold my breath but release it when I see my sister’s name.
Ari
I can’t believe that bully actually kicked me out before I got to congratulate you in person! Sending your performance video to Mama and Papa as we speak. You were the bomb, sissy! So proud of you!
Me
Thanks, Ari. I’m lucky to have you.
