Page 228 of Fame & Rhythm

“I’m sorry, Ast,” I whisper. “For everything I said. I was so caught up in the idea of her being my mother that I couldn’t see what she really was.”

“It’s fine,” he says softly. “You wanted to believe the best in her. There’s nothing wrong with that.” His gaze holds mine. “But now you see her clearly, yeah?”

I nod, stepping into him and wrapping my arms around his waist. “Yeah,” I murmur. “I do.”

“Come on,” Dad says after a moment. “Let’s get inside. I think we’ve all had enough for one day.”

I nod again as Aston keeps hold of me, steady and solid at my side, while we walk back inside together, the door closing firmly behind us.

And for the first time since that bitch showed up, it feels like I’m not just shutting her out,

I’m choosing where I belong.

Chapter Forty-One

Annie

We spend the rest of the day together in the living room, putting on light, happy shows, and trying to reset after everything that happened. It feels good, safe to be surrounded by my real family. The people who would never treat me the way that woman did.

I still can’t believe she hit me.

And if I’m honest, I don’t understand why I wanted so badly to believe her in the first place. Looking back now, it’s obvious because the signs were there. She must have been high those times we met. The way she looked, the way she acted… it all makes sense now.

She didn’t want me.

She wanted what I could give her.

And there’s no way I’m ever letting that happen.

Aston is staying over, and he and Dad had a long talk earlier about everything. Dad wanted to make sure Aston was really in this, that he could support me properly while I’m still a bit shaken. Aston didn’t hesitate. He made it clear he’s here for the long haul, and hearing that settles something deep inside me.

I hate that I hurt him today. The way I snapped at him, the things I said…

I’ll fix that tonight.

“I’m so tired,” I murmur, not really directing it at anyone as I curl further into Aston’s side.

“You’ve had a huge day, sweetheart,” Mum says gently. “Why don’t you head up to bed and try to get some proper sleep?”

I glance up at Aston, and he gives me a small nod.

“Yeah… that sounds good.” I push myself upright. “Thanks for everything today. You really showed up for me.” My chest tightens slightly, but this time it’s not pain. “I know I’m loved, and that’s what matters.”

They all smile at me, and I stand, Aston rising with me.

“Goodnight,” I say.

“Night, sweetheart,” Mum replies, while Dad and Ella echo her.

“Oh, and Aston…” Dad adds, catching his attention.

“Yeah?”

“Look after her tonight. And if you need us, we’re just down the hall.”

“Of course,” Aston says easily. Then he glances at me with a soft smile. “C’mon, baby. Let’s get you to bed.”

I nod, taking his hand before we head toward the stairs. Halfway up, I lean in and press a quick kiss to his cheek.