Page 82 of My Summer Girl

And I think you are too.

Me?

Overwhelmed with disbelief, I gasp, and my goblet slips from my grasp. Amidst the chaos of spilled contents and people’s surprised reactions, my attention is captivated by this charming peachy princess at my feet.

She comes in my castle with so much confidence and beauty, and she just says the words I haven’t allowed myself to wish for. Vex holds her waist at the same time Dulce grips Raev, as if he’s going to run away at the drop of a pin.

Maybe he will. Anger still resides under my ribcage at his betrayal and I think it has more to do with something else I refuse to acknowledge than it has to do with finding her.

She’s perfect.

I turn to my court, standing and peering at the spectacle that’s now occurring. I’ve never lost control. Ever. And today won’t be the first.

“Be seated,” I guide, attempting to appear composed. “The decision will be announced tomorrow morning, following the pie tasting.”

Someone out in the crowd stands. Squinting, I note that it’s Rhodie, a selkie from our Olivas bloodline. “We always decide night of... my queen.”

Their words weren’t rude, but rather inquisitive. I need to escape this room and by doing it, I’d be breaking tradition.

“You're right,” I admit regretfully, taking a deep breath. I can’t just disappear, even if every inch of me begs to yell and let out my feelings, cry and just exist in all that overwhelms me. Out of nowhere, Dulce extends her hand toward me, gently cradling my jaw with utmost reverence. She leans over the table with purpose, and garners every ounce of my attention.

“It’s okay, we’re not going anywhere.” The trace of her skin sets me ablaze. My entire body scorching where our skin still touches. “Be the queen you need to be. We will wait.”

My eyes burn at her dedication to me. She’s only met me but it’s as if understanding and her have created a friendship before either of us have. I don’t even peer at the other two, because at this moment, it’s only her and I.

“Okay,” I promise, my voice barely a whisper, as she leans closer and kisses my forehead, releasing the softest sound.

“Come find me, Vera.”

“I will,” I nervously promise, unsure why it feels so effortless. My lips are so close to her throat. The urge to bite almost takes over and I have to close my eyes to truly separate myself from this dream fantasy that’s very much in view of a hundred people.

She grabs Raev and Vex, leading them to chairs at my table, and with the cutest and most flirtatious wink known to Solera, she sits in the chair next to me. The one Vex previously sat in. Then with a nod, she urges me to continue like I’m holding back.

She doesn’t have to be so loud.

Although the moment with Dulce and me was brief, the guards are still cleaning up the meinshine I accidentally dropped.

Ignoring the curious glances toward us, I adjust my posture, aiming for a dignified appearance.

“It’s time to feast!” The sound of my words resonates throughout the dining hall. Volunteers and farmers warmly welcome members in the room, offering slices of their pies and creating a lively atmosphere of conversation.

After the tasting, we narrowed our selection to just seven pies. Mónóg, chocolate-cinnamon, zuju, Solera berry, razzle-dazzle, apple, and a meinshine imbibed one. With over fifty to sample, we thought we’d burst from eating. They were so delicious, though. Whatever was left, we took to others, not letting any go to waste.

“What now?” Alessand leans in and whispers into my ear. Although there were still many people and energy in the dining hall, I no longer feel the need to stay there. It’s time for me to talk to Raev and discuss what has happened. Then maybe, maybe I can truly meet Dulce. When we’re not being gawked at by everyone, that is.

“I shall take my leave.”

Alessand nods, helping me out of my chair. Dulce looks at me expectantly but I just shake my head, hoping she understands. Her teeth bite into her lush bottom lip, like she’s holding back what she wants to say.

Pointedly, I turn to look at Raev who has avoided me all night. Throughout the meal, Dulce has comforted me by squeezing my thigh. Surprisingly, my vines refrain from attacking her, as they don't perceive her as a threat, and although I typically avoid physical contact, her touch feels familiar and comforting.

“Up. My chambers.”

Despite my words, Raev shows no sign of acknowledgement, except for the sound of his chair scraping as he heads toward the stairs.

This will either be bad or absolutely the worst outcome. I’m not ready, nor am I excited.

Without a second glance at my other two companions, I head where Raev has rushed off too, knowing that while this conversation needs to happen, I also need to keep my temper low.

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