The gala was getting closer and the entire island felt busier every passing day. Staff walking back and forth. Deliveries coming in. Decorations being arranged. It felt like the whole place was breathing in preparation.
I had not spent time with Grandma Vale since the spa day. And honestly, I liked it that way. I missed the warmth in her voice and the way she touched my hand when she spoke to me, but being near her made the lie feel heavier in my chest. I was already drowning in guilt. Being close to her would only pull me deeper.
And then there was Edrick.
That almost kiss.
I could still feel it sometimes, like a warm ghost brushing past my mouth. Looking at him felt strange now. Not in the I want to kill you way. Something worse. It was the what if you actually kissed me way. And I h
