Chapter 26
Thieran POV
I'm planning the anniversary. I took it upon myself to be the one to handle everything—decor, catering, music. I stare at the glowing tablet in my lap, swiping between color palettes and sample song playlists. It feels like trying to paint with light and sound.
Dad said he wanted something simple, and Father, like always, just nodded along. They're so cheesy, so in love, it makes me gag. But it also makes me want to get it perfect.
Besides, I don't really have anything else to do. Rami left the island last night for a job. He'll be back tomorrow, of course, but the house feels colder when he's not in it. I need to keep busy. I tell myself that while organizing a bouquet list that no one asked for.
I step out of my room with purpose, hoping to catch Luca before he says anything dumb or runs into the wrong person.
As soon as I close the door behind me, I freeze. Standing just a few steps down the hall is Raina. And wow, she's stunning. Her hair is braided, adorned with soft beads that catch the morning light. She's wearing a pale blue dress, one that flows around her like seafoam. Unexpectedly soft.
Then Mirelle walks out of her room right behind her.
And just like that, the matching outfits make sense.
I blink. Huh.
They do match. Not just in clothes, but in vibe. In stride. Like a glitch in the universe that somehow makes total sense.
I close my eyes briefly. My heart tugs. Luca is downstairs. He's going to see them together.
"Good morning," I say, forcing cheer.
"Good morning," Raina replies politely.
Mimi doesn't say anything. She just smirks and pats my head as she walks past.
Ugh. Stupid Alpha height. Everyone around here is a goddamn tree, and I'm stuck being pocket-sized. I swat her hand away.
"I styled my hair," I mutter, clicking my tongue.
She chuckles and struts down the hall like she owns the place. Asshole.
I trail behind them, watching with a growing sense of curiosity. Mirelle is actually talking. Like, full sentences. Raina too. They're conversing.
When did this happen? It's hard to pry words off her.
My phone buzzes.
LUCA: I'm downstairs.
I glance down at him from the landing. His red hair is like a beacon.
I pause at the top of the stairs, staying out of sight. Just in time to witness the scene.
Luca gives a full-on performance, introducing himself to Raina with a dazzling smile like nothing's wrong. He's always been good at pretending. At acting like everything is fine when it isn't.
Raina is polite. Mirelle's gaze is unreadable. And then they're gone.
Luca just stands there, staring after them.
I walk down slowly and poke his side.
"Hey," I say softly. "You ready?"
He turns toward me with unshed tears in his eyes.
Nope. We're not going to town today.
"Let's go. I want to show you something in my room."
He nods without question.
Once the door closes behind us, he breaks. His breath catches, and he collapses into my arms. I hold him tight as he trembles, clinging to my shirt.
He's been in love with Mirelle for as long as I can remember.
And looking at him now—devastated, betrayed, shattered—I know.
It wasn't just infatuation was it?