Chapter 79: Counting Your Losses

[Atticus]

It was a relief when Evie finally left me alone. Her presence grates on my nerves, and her kisses leave a foul taste in my mouth like wine turned to vinegar.

Loving Liliana has taught me how kisses should taste. Sweet like honey candy, not bitter and cold.

But how do I tell her how I feel? Will she believe me?

I wouldn't if I were her, not with how I've treated her over the years. Even these last two months, with how close we've become, I could understand why she'd take a moment to pause and consider that it might all be one big trick.

The sad thing is, she wouldn't be entirely wrong. This whole escapade started as a cruel way to make a brilliant soul dark, corrupting her fully, before tearing her apart like some kind of pagan sacrifice. We wanted to lift her above everyone else before we took her down so fast and so low that when she hit bottom the pain would be more excruciating.

And it was all my idea. And I can't say anything about it or I not only risk my spot as a l