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But it never failed, and the topic of my parents would somehow always emerge into the conversation.

“I can still hear them sometimes.” I told him.

“You do?” he questioned quietly. “What do they say?”

I thought about it. “Whenever I walk inside Chelsea's house, I can almost hear my mother welcoming me home.”

I fought to keep the tears down. I was done crying. “I keep expecting her to turn the corner with her arms open wide…”

I released a shuddered breath. “But she’s never there…”

His hand covered mine, and I couldn’t help the weak smile that formed on my lips in response.

He squeezed.

I found my eyes meeting his. He looked sad.

“What?” I asked, softly.

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright, Noah. I’m fine,” I whispered.

I knew that I wasn’t.

Not yet.

I was still hurting.

But as long as I stayed right here…

I grasped his hand, placing it on my cheek. He was so warm.

…I began to feel my heart slowly healing.

SILAS

I sat in front of the cameras, doting assistant managers adjusting my tie and collar. Spraying my hair with hair spray for the tenth fucking time. The lights flashed and left behind imprints on my eyes. I’d been in front of cameras before, but never like this.

“You look great, Mr. Thorne. Let’s try the next one with your hands in your pockets.”

I knew the time was approaching. Where I’d have to pay for what I did. The blood price Jace referred to was near. I could feel it.

That’s why I was constantly in front of the camera. So Jace could get the most of me while he was able too. Producers interviewed me for their commercials. I was posing for multiple images—some for our social media, others for public marketing.

“Small smile, Mr. Thorne. Look left.”

I understood that whatever was coming for me, might make me unrecognizable.

And while I was coming to terms with that reality, I wasn’t ready to do it without seeing Noah one last time. I wanted him to see me before I might not be the same anymore. I needed him to know what I hadn’t said on his birthday.

So I went against my better judgement. And I texted him.

Noah. I need to talk to you.

“Mr. Thorne, look at the camera!”

And when he didn’t answer, I tried to call.