Page 159 of The Jaded Notes

I go to my text thread with Jax and review all the messages he’s sent me since he left.

My King:“The universe conspires to help those who dare to dream beyond their circumstances.” Go after everything you want,mon trésor. You deserve it all.

I stare at both messages, the contrast between them so stark it makes me want to scream. Callum is asking if I’m still here and actually wants to know. Jax is sending generic motivational quotes like I’m some mentee he’s trying to inspire.

Me:Still here. Just dealing with some unexpected paperwork.

Callum:Anything I can help with?

I read another message from Jax before I can respond to Callum.

My King:“Success is not just about what you accomplish, but who you become in the process.” Remember your worth, Livianna.

The irony tastes like copper in my mouth. Here he’s telling me to remember my worth, while treating me like something he can sign away with legal documents.

I huff and respond to Callum.

Me:Not unless you’re secretly a lawyer.

Callum:Afraid not. But I make a decent distraction if you need one.

Callum:What are you working on so late on a Monday, anyway?

I glance around my studio. Sketches are scattered everywhere, half-finished designs mocking me from their easels.

I’m still in the comfortable clothes I threw on after my evening Pilates class. Soft leggings and an oversized sweater that feels like I’m trying to hide in denial. Which I am.

Me:Designs that refuse to cooperate. Kind of like everything else in my life.

Callum:Maybe they need a different perspective. Someone who appreciates the artist behind them.

Me:Is that what you are now? A fashion critic?

Callum:I’m whatever you need me to be, Lily.

Using my old nickname sends warmth spiraling through my chest. I’ll never not love being called that by him.

He’s the only one who has ever used that name with me, and the sentiment behind it I hold near and dear to my heart. Hence, the tattoo on my chest. Those memories stir up a lot of emotions.

I go to another message from Jax. There’s got to be one that shows how he feels about me.

My King:“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Keep creating, beautiful soul.

I want to throw my phone across the room. Beautiful soul?

He couldn’t even say goodbye in person, couldn’t even explain why he’s giving me the house like it’s some kind of severance package.

I want to email Jax, but I can’t when I’m this hurt. I need time to write something I won’t regret later.

Me:Callum, can I ask you something?

Callum:Anything.

Me:Do you ever get tired of people who speak in inspirational quotes instead of actual conversation?

Callum:All the time. Real talk beats fake wisdom every day. You know I’ve never fallen for that bullshit. Why?

I glare at Jax’s messages, at these empty platitudes that aresupposed to mean something but feel like he’s giving a pep talk to one of his employees.