Because it’s not.
I’m not.
I’m fucking ruin and destruction hidden behind this careless mask that will lead the world to damnation if it were left up to me.
I’m not right for anyone, and especially not for her.
“Fuck,” I whisper under my breath, clenching my jaw.
How the fuck did I even get here? And I refuse to believe that Heaven sees me like that.
We are more than just worlds apart.
And I don’t see her as anything more. I never have, and I never will.
That’s a fucking promise.
Their Questions
Heaven
I’m struggling to remain calm as I head towards the dining hall, knowing there are several pairs of eyes on me.
My mama. I saw Theo’s parents watching us, too. And Uncle Rayhan, Uncle Leo, Sienna, Allie – everyone!
Oh my gosh, that dance was… My cheeks burn, and I’m just grateful for my makeup, so it’s toned down.
“We need to talk about this, don’t we?” Sienna whispers, her eyes wide, a small smile on her face.
No,I write as I take hold of her arm, guiding her towards the dining hall. I spot Allie dragging Theo across the room, and my stomach flutters nervously, wondering what she’s saying to him. There’s no doubt it was about the dance.
Sienna whispers a spell. “Oh, come on, don’t deny it. You like him, don’t you?” she asks, staring into my eyes as if she can see what’s written in my soul.
I don’t respond, not a denial, not an acknowledgement, just-
“Oh my Goddess!” she gasps, hiding a squeal. “Theo! Wait, is he really the reason you broke up with Holden?”
I shake my head, and Sienna smiles. “We’ll continue this later,” she whispers, although she has cast a silencing spell.
I nod.Sounds good,I write, just needing a moment.
The feel of his touch lingers, the way he whispered in my ear, his hand on my stomach. Does this mean maybe, just maybe, he feels something?
No… yes, maybe? Oh, I don’t know!
No. I can’t even think about this.
“That was quitea dance,” Mama says once the first course is served. I smile smoothly, nodding slightly, knowing she’s observing me with those sharp, brown eyes.
Thank you,I respond nonchalantly. The room is filled with a pleasant buzz of chatter and the tinkling of dinnerware as everyone tucks in.
Scheherazade smiles at me from across the large, round table. “It was amazing. I can’t dance anywhere near as well as that.”
Really? It’s really fun. I am certain you dance beautifully, but if not, I’m sure Tatum can help you learn some tricks. He dances well,I write, smiling over at her.
All our family is at this table along with Grandpa Marcel, Winona and their children. Uncle Leo and Azura, as well as their older children, and Grandpa Alejandro’s family, are seated with the Westwoods. Probably a strategic move by Aunty Delsanra, who I know organised most of this party. The only one breaking the formation is Allie, who sits between Sienna and me. After all, the three of us are together wherever we go.
“I’m sure he will,” Sienna agrees.
