There was a pause on the other end… too long.
Zonnique’s voice returned pleasant, but tighter that time. “Unfortunately, no. But you’ll meet him soon. I promise.”
My smile twitched. “Of course,” I mumbled softly.
“But before meeting him, we need to change a few things.”
“A few things like what?” I asked, shifting the phone against my ear.
“Your appearance,” Zonnique answered carefully. There was a brief pause before she quickly added, “And don’t take that the wrong way because face-wise and body-wise? You’re beautiful… naturally beautiful. But hair, clothes, upkeep—those things matter too. Sometimes they completely change how people perceive you.”
I stayed quiet while listening.
“And if this is really going to happen, you’ll eventually be representing Merge in some capacity whether either of you want that attention or not. People pay attention to who stands beside men like him.”
There it was again… Merge.
Still strange hearing Jace called that.
“So, we need to elevate you a little,” she said lightly. “Wardrobe, hair, maintenance… nothing over the top. Everything will be on me financially, so don’t stress about that.”
I thought I looked perfectly fine already. Matter of fact, Jace liked me exactly how I was back then. Hoodies, natural hair, soft makeup—none of that ever seemed to bother him. But the version of him I knew clearly wasn’t the same man existing now. I guess I didn’t mind upgrading a little if it meant fitting better into his world.
“Okay,” I agreed finally. “That’s fine.”
“Good,” Zonnique replied warmly. “I’ll see you Wednesday then. And congratulations again.”
“Thank you,” I expressed, voice sugary sweet. “You won’t regret this.”
“Let’s hope not,” she muttered before ending the call.
The line went dead.
I slowly sat down on a nearby bench, staring at my reflection in the dark phone screen while excitement bubbled inside my chest.
“Soon,” I whispered to myself, smiling wider. “She said I’ll see Jace soon.”
My reflection smiled back at me—bright-eyed, hopeful, adoring… and a little unhinged.
I pressed the phone against my chest and laughed softly under my breath.
“You hear that, Jace?!” I shouted excitedly. “We’re about to have the family we’ve always talked about! I knew you’d forgive me and come back to me! Everybody thought I was crazy, but I knew you wouldn’t leave me forever!”
My eyes watered instantly.
“You came back different, that’s all,” I continued gently, almost lovingly. “Different name, different life… but it’s still you. I know it!”
The thought made me giggle quietly.
A couple walking past slowed down slightly, staring at me while I sat there smiling and talking to myself.
That’s when I finally blinked back into reality.
My smile dropped just enough for embarrassment to creep in.
I quickly glanced around, suddenly checking to make sure Dr. Loomis hadn’t walked outside and overheard me. Once I realized I was in the clear, I smoothed down my shirt, cleared my throat, and stood. Then I continued walking home with a smile I couldn’t quite hide.
We’re finally gonna see each other again, Jace, and when we do, nobody’s taking you from me ever again.
