Chapter 75

A Week Later

"Are we really going to Gloria's funeral?" I asked Ethan as he adjusted his tie in the mirror. Though I knew from the moment we arrived in New York last night, part of me still hoped I could convince him otherwise.

"I am, but it’s fine if you don’t want to," Ethan replied, straightening his black tie with ease.

"If you’re going, I’m going," I insisted, rising to my feet. I knew I couldn’t protect him if Wayne and Christof had something planned, but at the very least, I could be by his side and warn him if necessary.

"Are you sure?" Ethan asked, his voice tinged with concern. "I know Gloria hasn’t exactly left you with good memories, and Jennifer and all your other friends will be there."

"I don’t mind," I said. "I just want to stay by your side." I honestly didn’t mind seeing Jennifer again. She was still a good friend, but avoiding her had been essential for my sanity.

"Okay, if you insist," Ethan said, giving in. I nodded and slipped on a black, three-quarter-sleeved