AFTERWARD, SLADE AND I got dressed and headed downstairs. It was just after eight in the evening and we could hear laughter coming from the Dining Hall. When we stepped inside, all eyes were on us.
“Hi,” I said, smiling shyly as I looked at the group. Everyone was there, including Aiden’s brother and his guests, who I hadn’t formally met.
Melody stood up and ran to me. “Chelsey, thank goodness you’re up! I’ve missed you so much.”
“I missed you, too,” I said, hugging her back. It was then that I found myself enchanted by her scent and it frightened me.
“Come and eat,” she said, pulling me toward the table, unaware of the horror I was feeling inside.
“Actually, we have some things we need to do,” said Slade, noticing the way I’d stiffened up.
“Oh,” she replied, looking disappointed. “O
