Because I do care.
More than I want to admit.
More than I probably should.
My phone buzzes.
I glance down and see the group chat lighting up—my cousins. My girls.
The first message makes me snort.
Lucy
Bitch you better answer us before I sic Balor on your man’s shit.
A laugh bubbles up before I realize my eyes are burning. I swipe my cheeks, confused by the wetness until I register it—tears.
When did I start crying?
Michaela
Seriously, Cece. What gives? Liam said you’re being forced to fake date some guy??
Lee-Lee
Okay but like, he’s not just some guy, you guys. He’s a fucking prince. A hot one. With chest hair and a yacht. Let’s not panic yet.
Andrea
It’s true. Atlas Stavros is legit royalty. But cuz, are you okay?
I inhale a shaky breath and hold it for a second.
I could lie.
I could play it cool.
But sometimes, a woman needs her family.
Her besties.
And if they happen to be one and the same? Even better.
So I type back with shaking fingers.
Cece
Girls? Um, I think I might be in trouble.
I think I’m falling for the prince.
My thumb hovers over send, and for a heartbeat, I think about deleting it. Rewording it. Pretending.
But no.
Not today.
I hit send.
