“I miss you too, Chiquita. Always.”
When we hang up, the quiet returns—but this time, it feels softer.
I stay on the beach a little longer, my feet sinking into the cool sand as the late morning sun glimmers over the lake.
Now, sitting alone, I watch the waves blur—steady and endless, and I remember the girl I was here.
The one full of life and self-confidence, who believed anything was possible.
Back then, I thought someone else would hand me the life I dreamed of. That love could carry me there. Thathecould.
But now… for the first time in years, I let myself wonder—Could it still be possible? Could I make my dreams come true? What if they’ve just been waiting… for me to choose them?
Maybe, just maybe, I could build the life I imagined—not the one promised to me, but one I create, step by step, with my own hands.
By early afternoon, I slowly make my way back through the quiet streets—passing families barbecuing in their yards, kids riding bikes, couples holding hands.
And somewhere deep inside, a fragile hope stirs.
Maybe this time… I don’t have to wait for someone else.
Maybe this time… I could begin on my own.
Chapter 5
A DEAL IN THE DARK
The most dangerous lies are the ones built from the pieces of a broken truth
Leah
Five years ago
The night I took back control.
A knock at the door made me flinch.
At first, I didn’t move. I just stood there in the dark, barefoot on cold tile, a silk robe clinging to my body.
He knocked again. Three fast strikes.
Then silence. Then once more—like he couldn’t help himself.
I knew it was him. I’d waited. And made him wait, too.
I opened the door slowly. And there he was.
Dorian.
Rain-soaked. Hollow. Eyes red-rimmed, jaw clenched tight like he had been chewing on regret for hours. His shirt stuck to his body, his hands trembled just enough to betray the drinks he’s already had.
He looked like hell. Beautiful, broken hell.
My favorite kind.
He didn’t say anything at first. Just stood in the doorway, dripping onto the tile like something spilled and restless.
“Della...”
