Page 42 of My Summer Girl

I nod quickly, thinking about how Cupids seem behind on everything. Marriage? Not unless there’s a contract. Love? Only to give to others. Freedom? Until I walked out of Paloma’s office, I didn’t know more than the dictionary’s definition.

Chapter Sixteen

Vex

(they/sir)

Sugar, We’re Goin Down – Fall Out Boy

“She’s gone.”

A weird sensation tingles inside my rib cage, separating me from her. As if what tethers us is being stretched to its limit until it snaps. It lets me know she not only isn’t on this realm anymore, but she’s not wearing the collar she always wore to honor us.

When did she remove it? Was I so caught up in my lusting and our scene that I didn’t notice that very important part of her missing?

My chest aches with worry. She’s not where I can find her. I’ve only just got her, and already, I’ve failed her.

Even with a newfound bond, it’s not strong enough to sense her from another realm. She’s lost to me. For now.

Dread rises within me, and everyone looks at me for guidance after what just occurred. As if they’re aware of my moods, they know it isn’t a part of the scene. And for once, I have no fucking clue what to tell them. Yes, somehow we’re unsafe and something took my mate? That’ll likely induce panic.

“Was that part of the scene?” someone braves, and I hiss in response, visibly upset. I’d rip out their throat if I thought it’d make me feel better. This isn’t their fault, it’s mine. I’ve lost her and it’s on me to fix.

“Out!” I roar, not feeling like myself. My skin itches, my chest aches, and there’s an unexplainable pain tearing itself from my heart.

Is this what death feels like?

I’ve always wondered, and with this curiosity, I never want to experience this sensation again. It’s far worse than a century ago with my friend. Not until Dulce did I ever bond with any being.

“Fuck!”

I grip the table she’s supposed to be on right now and heave it angrily. The whine of the wood exploding is nothing in comparison to my inhumane groans. Everyone has left, but there’s no stopping the absolute horror flooding my existence.

By the time I’ve gone through this entire room, roaring, destroying things, a familiar voice stops me in my tracks.

One I trust.

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