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35: CRUMBLING WALLS

last update Last Updated: 2024-12-21 23:58:01

Elara’s POV

“El, it’s really you,” Nico says, walking closer until he’s standing right next to me.

The smile on his face widens as though he’s genuinely happy to see me.

This can’t be happening. It can’t be him.

Why is Nico here of all places?

Shit. This is bad.

“It’s me,” I say, forcing a chuckle, though it sounds awkward even to my ears.

“Let me guess, you got lost?” he asks, tilting his head with a teasing smirk.

“Yes,” I reply, laughing nervously. “One second I was in a room full of people, and the next, I’m out here admiring the place. I didn’t even realize I’d wandered so far, and now I can’t seem to find anyone.”

“That’s Villa Felicità for you,” he says with a shrug.

“I can see that,” I respond lightly, though I’m not really in the mood for small talk.

“It’s dinner time already. Everyone’s in the dining room. Come on, I’ll take you there.”

Before I can protest, he pulls my hand and links it with his. The gesture catches me off guard, but I try my best not to let it show.

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Heather W
She did herself no favors by not filling him in on why she's there while they were alone. In the end, he timid nature is going to have her looking weak and flakey
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