That woman is someone else who has possessed my body and forced all life, joy, and happiness out. I instantly dislike this imposter and scowl at the woman in the mirror.
Shifting my focus, I unzip the toiletry bag to find my toothbrush, consciously deciding not to look atthat womanin the mirror again.
I throw the toiletry bag onto the bed and walk to the hall, where the delicious aroma invades my senses. My stomachgrowls again, and I inhale and then exhale slowly, readying myself for taking the stairs. My body’s heavy, and I can’t escape the fog that’s filled my head. I hold on to the rail and slowly take one step at a time, being careful as I’m weak, while I make my way downstairs to the kitchen.
Finally, my feet touch the cold, tiled floor. I push myself upright, steadying against the wall as I catch my breath. Everything feels off-kilter.
The walk to the dining area is short, but it feels long. When I reach the doorway, Joseph and Danny are already at the table.
Danny notices me first, his kind smile reaching his eyes. He gestures toward the empty seat across from him, where a plate and utensils are already set. I offer a slight, grateful nod in return.
He places a hand on Joseph’s, drawing his attention. Joseph looks up, and when he sees me, his smile beams.
No one says a word as I take my seat.
The table is covered in mountains of Indian food, the rich aromas making my stomach growl loudly. Joseph chuckles. I ignore him, pick up my plate, and take a little of everything, forcing myself to eat as much as I can.
When I finally lean back in my chair, I exhale a heavy breath and glance at Joseph. And with a half-smile, I murmur, “Thank you.”
He reaches out, takes my hand in his, and kisses it softly. “I’m glad you’re here. We were getting concerned about how long you’ve gone without solid food. I knew you couldn’t resist my Indian.” Joseph raises his eyebrows with a smirk.
Suddenly, the doorbell rings.
Joseph moves to stand, but I catch his hand, stopping him. “I’ll go. I’m done eating. You guys finish,” I say.
I make my way to the front door, moving slowly. Even though I’m only wearing a shirt and underwear, I don’t care—everything’s covered.
Flipping on the porch light, I open the door…
… and walk straight into a paparazzi storm.
Blinding flashes.
Shouted questions.
Fucking chaos.
I recoil, stumbling as the disorienting light swallows me whole.
“Miss Norman, is it true you have left Colter Slade to return to your ex-boyfriend?”
“What? No—” I reply, but am cut off by another person yelling at me.
“Is it true that Colter broke your heart, driving you into the arms of another man?”
I shake my head in confusion as more flashes disorient me.
“Dee, over here.”
What the hell?I’m not posing for you, douche wad!
“What are your thoughts on the fact that12GAUGE-Slayedwon’t play their most popular song, “Until the End of Time,” at their concerts anymore? Is that something to do with your brutal breakup?”
Tears prick at my eyes instantly. They burn my throat, threatening to tip over and run down my cheeks. I had no idea Colt wasn’t singing that song—our song.
They continue yelling ridiculous questions at me, and I’m so stunned I simply stand here and cry.
How the hell did they find me?
