Present
In a matter of weeks,my life has become unrecognizable. I went from isolating myself, even from those closest to me, to being a central component of a tightly knit family. The thing that surprises me the most is how oddly familiar it feels.
I think that’s because this is the life I had envisioned for myself when I was younger.
Back when Elio was alive.
Family gatherings and gossip, group text threads and inside jokes—elements of a close community that can only exist when connection is a priority. I’ve spent years denying myself that life, refusing to exist in a world I should have shared with my brother, but it’s time to let that go.
It’s time to move on from the past.
I’ve surprised myself at how easily I’ve shed my old skin. The overhaul has been so dramatic that my two circles have merged into one. Mom’s surgery was a huge catalyst. Zuzu and Rina coordinated to make sure my parents didn’t have to cook a single meal in three weeks. Mom is doing so well that my parents arejoining us for family dinner tonight at Zuzu’s house, along with Renzo, Shae, Liora, Tommy, and Danika.
Zuzu is making her famous caponata, and while everyone talks over one another, we have the Sunday evening football game on in the background.
I’ve been looking forward to it all week.
So has Terina. My firefly has been glowing brighter than ever, and that is the best part of all. She deserves all the happiness in the world. Even if that means Bonny in a bumble bee costume for Halloween. Her nails are even painted yellow.
“We should have gotten them matching costumes,” Rina squeals to Shae while holding Liora, who is decked out in a tiger onesie.
Shae’s eyes widen. “They could be Daenerys and her dragon.”
“Or hear me out,” Rina says with a grin. “They could be something adorable like Winnie the Pooh and Piglet.”
Shae scrunches her nose. “I’m pretty sure Liora is more dragon queen than little pig.”
Rina studies Shae for a second before responding. “Yeah, you’re probably right. Piglet’s a bit timid for your warrior princess. Isn’t that right?” She coos the last part to Liora, who gives her an adoring smile.
Zuzu comes up behind Rina and also grins down at the baby. “She is a princess, isn’t she? I can’t wait to see her in a fancy dress for the wedding.” She turns her focus to Shae, wiping her hands on her apron. “Have you gone shopping for it yet? It’s only two weeks away.”
While the two talk, my eyes are fixed on Terina, who visibly deflates. She’s been horribly worried about her best friend. Isa has insisted on going through with the arranged marriage. The Luccianos have designated a groom, and all the plans have been made. In two weeks, Isa Costa will marry Mazzi Antonelli.
I’m not thrilled about it, either, but she’s a grown woman. If this is what she wants, that’s her choice.
“I can go grab it real quick.” Rina’s words filter through my thoughts as she hands the baby back to Shae.
“What are you grabbing?” I ask, realizing I’ve missed something.
“Mom didn’t get the mail today, so I’m going to run out there and get it.”
I’m immediately on my feet. “I’ll go with you.” As if I’d let her go out alone. We’re deep enough into fall that it’s been dark for an hour. Her mother’s house isn’t in a bad area, but that doesn’t mean shit can’t happen.
She smiles and leads the way.
This same scenario would have played out drastically different had it taken place months ago. I’m reminded of our heated exchange outside this same house on the first night I was assigned to protect her.
Satisfaction thrums in my chest when I think of how she responded to me right from the beginning. The memory elicits another emotion, as well.
Desire.
As soon as we’re outside, I bend and fold Terina over my shoulder.
She gasps and giggles. “You’re going the wrong way.”
“We’ll get the mail after.”
“After what?”
