68: I Circle You On a Map

I stared at Sebastian's last message with mixed emotions. The rainstorm was still roaring outside, but somehow, Sebastian's invitation felt like an absurd thing but one I wanted to try.

Even though there were so many unfinished business between us, maybe I could ignore that for a moment and rest my mind, letting Sebastian take us, at least to Ace.

"Dad, Mom," I called out to my parents who were busy with their own activities. "Sebastian wants to take me and Ace out."

My mom stopped embroidering and looked at me carefully. "Is that a good idea, Bella?" she asked gently, while my father just nodded slowly.

"I know it sounds weird, but... it might be a good opportunity for Ace. And maybe for me too, to find out what really happened five years ago," I replied, trying to convince myself more than anyone else.

Vito looked at me attentively. "If that's what you want, I won't stand in your way. I'm sure he won't hurt you," he said in a casual tone.

I smiled slightly. "Thanks, Vito, but I'll b