Page 45 of My Summer Girl

“Where have you been out in the open?”

I think back to the past week and realize I haven’t. Only Dulce has. “He wanted her. This was never about me.” Not an enemy, nor a rival. This was planned and he targeted my mate.

Now having my answer, I rush for my magical quill that can send letters to any place that has a known name. Hurrying with my words, I now know what is needed. Not a threat—no, a promise offered in kind.

Their queen must give me this Raevar. He must pay for taking what’s mine.

Chapter Seventeen

Vera

Heat Waves – Glass Animals

It’s been too long.

While it has only been a few days, something feels off whenever I reach out to him through our bond. It’s like Raevar is there but not. Avoiding and detaching from what links us.

I sit in court on my branch and thorn-made throne, wanting nothing more than to port-path to Raevar. I’ve never once had to do it, not only under the guise of not breaching his trust and spying, but because he’s always at my side. Being a control freak isn’t exactly something to brag about.

Sure, I get things done. Nothing ever stays incomplete, but it’s like living my life for me isn’t a thing. I should be able to do this myself, find love, and be happy. What if he gets me someone who isn’t kind and doesn’t understand my dedication to my court? He wouldn’t do that, right? No. He knows what I need in a life partner.

Physically, I’m unable to leave Solera, so him being off-realm was easier. Him being here and avoiding me changes things. It’s impossible. There’s a tangible itch, begging me to reach out to him.

This festering under my skin doesn’t make sense, but I need him to come back. He could’ve used his port to come directly here. Why does he delay?

Not once has he been away from me this long. It’s weird not having him near me at all times, and I realize sadness is very much present with his absence.

He’s my best friend.

Life doesn’t make sense when he’s gone.

One would think it’d be easier. He does talk a lot. Without him, there’s no home. No food that him and his abuelita make. No elotes with extra limon. Or frijoles for breakfast lunch and dinner. My mouth waters thinking of the weeks worth of meals I’ve missed out on. Not that it’s his job. His love language is acts of service and even if I didn’t love his food—I do—I’d eat it regardless because I love him. As a friend. He’s my best friend.

Yeah, it’s the food I miss... right?

“My queen.” Vael, my secondary guard announces. I never thought I’d miss the words “mi reina” so much. Raevar says it with an accent. You’d never think he’d have one, but whenever he speaks his mother tongue, he does it properly.

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