“And what does this book teach you?”I probed further.
“That love is a primal, amoral force,” Zane replied seriously, as if the statement resonated deeply within him.For a moment, his eyes drifted into the distance.“Let's go; I need to feed you,” Zane said abruptly, standing up.I followed him without question.
I watched him in the kitchen, and I felt a yearning to learn more about him—his likes, his feelings.
“Stop looking at me like that,” he said, lifting a whisk.
“Like what?”I protested innocently.
“Like I'm about to cook a meal for you.I just boiled some pasta and opened a jar of cold sauce.That's about the extent of my culinary skills,” he said, raising his hands in mock surrender.
While we shared a meal, he opened up about his childhood, sharing that he used to collect rocks and kept a light on while he slept until he turned ten.He also shared that he got his first scar from a bicycle accident at age six.He reminisced about his first kiss at twelve, wearing braces, and having a face full of freckles along with long, curly hair.However, he seemed reluctant to discuss his parents, so I didn't pry.
He even reminisced about V, describing her as a sweet child, which surprised me.I mentioned the upcoming party, and to my surprise, he agreed to accompany me if that was what I wanted, noting that theViperswould be there too.
After our lunch, he meticulously washed all the dishes, refusing my offers to help.Zane offered to drive me home, but I insisted on taking the bus instead.He tried to convince me otherwise, but I held my ground.Before I left, he leaned in and kissed me deeply.Dizziness, lava, air floating, flowers blooming, tremor… I experienced it all.Once again.
Strolling through the town, I couldn't help but notice the many shops lining the streets.Suddenly, it struck me that I had nothing suitable to wear for the upcoming party, so I decided to take a look around since I still had a bit of time before my bus was scheduled to leave.
I wandered through several boutiques, but nothing caught my eye.Just as I was about to give up, something white stood out among the other garments.I reached for it and discovered it was my size.
It was a simple, sleeveless A-line dress in solid white, featuring a V-neck in the front and a deeper plunge in the back.When I tried it on, I realized I would have to forgo a bra.Though it felt a bit strange at first, the thick fabric and snug bodice provided enough support.When I glanced in the mirror, I was pleasantly surprised—it looked fantastic and was perfect for the occasion.
The day turned out to be wonderful: I spent the morning with Zane, enjoyed a blissful bath, found the ideal dress, and even managed to catch my bus.Little did I know what fate had in store for me.
If I had lingered longer with Zane, I might have rushed to catch my bus without stopping to shop, or if I had accepted a ride, I would never have discovered this beautiful dress.If only… But I didn't want to believe in destiny, and yet now I found myself questioning my beliefs.Because that dress would be worn for the first and last time.
Chapter 31
The week brought a wave of unsettling dreams, or perhaps they were more accurately memories.The distinction was hazy, but the intense pain they evoked was unmistakable—a searing torment buried deep within me, rendering me nearly mute.It felt as if uttering a word aloud might set off a cataclysm.I tried not to think about it much.
It wasn't an easy week; my dad confronted Zane about climbing on my terrace, and things escalated quickly until my mom had to step in.In the end, my dad acknowledged that no matter how old I got, he would always feel a sense of protectiveness toward me.
I met with Jessica twice this week—once at the coffee shop and again at her place for a chat and a movie.She seemed completely smitten with her new guy, which eased my worries about Zane a little.
Slipping into my white dress, I struggled to balance on the heels I had chosen.I really wanted to wear a pair I had borrowed from my mom, but I felt awkward and unsteady, so I decided to bring my sneakers along just in case.
Zane had a capoeira practice, so I was driving with Jessica and her boyfriend while Marco drove with Emily in his new car that he got for his birthday.He had never been one for big parties, so they celebrated privately.
The heels were already starting to pinch, but I was determined to look nice for Zane, so I tried my best to ignore the discomfort.
As we drew closer, the parking lot was overflowing with cars, making it seem like the entire region had turned out for the event.Fortunately, Jessica’s boyfriend, Damiano, graciously dropped us off at the entrance while he searched for a parking spot.
The venue was an abandoned villa that was often rented out for various occasions, ranging from lavish parties to weddings and fashion shows.It boasted a stunning garden with fountains and sculptures, expansive outdoor areas, and spacious indoor facilities.
Everyone was dressed to impress, with guys sporting stylish shirts and girls flaunting form-fitting, short dresses or skirts paired with outrageously high heels.I had my coat on because the evening air was quite chilly, while many of the attendees were dressed minimally, likely under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
“Love your dress!”Jessica exclaimed as she gave me an appreciative once-over.
“Thanks!You look great too,” I replied politely.She wore a sleek black dress with a daring V-neckline.At first, I thought it was a bit much, but as I scanned the crowd, I quickly reconsidered.Most of the girls were similarly attired, predominantly in black.I realized my pale complexion would contrast sharply against such dark shades, which is why I opted for something lighter.
Before long, Damiano arrived with Marco and Emily.I texted Zane, but he replied that he was running late and would find me later.Our first stop was to check in our coats, followed by a trip to the bar, where we all ordered the same drink—juice mixed with vodka.I took small sips, mindful that I hadn't eaten much for dinner, while my eyes darted around, searching for Zane and feeling anxious for his arrival.
Suddenly Jessica and Damiano hit the dance floor, and Emily and Marco slipped away to find a restroom.I made a point to stay close to Jessica to avoid losing her in the crowd.That was when I noticed Clous, who was sporting a shiny red shirt and white jeans.Shortly after, Jake entered alongside V, who wore a long slip dress complemented by a black shawl and boots.Jake was dressed in a black slip shirt and blue jeans.
They headed in the opposite direction, with V casting a disdainful glance in my direction.My eyes followed her, and I caught sight of someone approaching me from the side.
I turned my head and caught sight of Zane, who paused a few steps away to take me in completely.He gazed at me as if I were a masterpiece, trying to lock in every little detail.I couldn't deny that I was doing the same with him.He wore a slim black shirt with the sleeves rolled up, showcasing his toned arms, paired with white jeans and black sneakers.
