Thanks to the interruption, the moment shatters instantly.
Liliana pops out from beneath my arms, escaping me. I watch her retreat behind her walls again.
I was so fucking close to breaking her. Several long seconds pass before she speaks.
“I’m sorry I caused you so much pain, Rafaelle.”
Finally, she turns away. I catch her wrist before she can leave.
Her eyes meet mine.
"I'll find out the truth."
The promise comes out rough. Whatever she's hiding, I know it's connected to me. I can feel it.
“And when I do, you’ll be mine again. Understand?” I prompt.
The smile she offers me is sad, “Don’t hold your breath, Raf.”
She leaves and I’m left standing there, knowing I have no intention of giving up on us.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
LILIANA
The rest of the gala passes in a blur. I don't see Rafaelle again.
Not really. A few times I catch glimpses of him across the ballroom in his dark suit and even darker eyes. He looks amazing.
Whenever my eyes find him, he’s already looking back at me. Always watching me.
I think about walking over to him more times than I can count. I think about finishing our conversation in the hallway. I could end it so easily, give him the truth he deserves.
But each time, fear wins.
Once Rafaelle knows about Mila, everything changes and I don't know if I'm ready for that.
The only bright spot in the evening comes in the form of Santiago. My brother appears seemingly out of nowhere. I thought he wasn’t going to appear considering I’ve barely seen him all week.
He’s dressed impeccably in a black suit. I blink at the sight of him but he simply holds out a hand.
"Dance with me."
I stare at him.
"What? No please? Or at least even a greeting. Where have you been all week?"
His expression doesn't change.
"I said dance, little sister. Not ask questions.”
He’s very annoying. I assume this is the universal sibling experience.
“You’re very charming, Santiago," I say sarcastically.
"I'm aware."
Despite myself, I smile. I don’t know why I’m so comfortable around him. He certainly hasn’t done or shown me more friendliness or warmth than required. I guess a part of me likes having an elder brother.
