Page 171 of Vicious Addictions

Yes, she’s young—only sixteen—while I turned twenty just last month. But the way she thinks and speaks carries a wisdom far beyond her years.

But then again, I shouldn’t be surprised.

It’s just as she said that first night I met her—kids in line to the throne don’t get to be children for long. We forfeited the right the day we were born.

Like I said, Mina is wiser than her years.

She’s even been teaching me how to play chess.

Sure, I suck at it, but when we’re playing, I don’t feel so homesick anymore.

And it’s all because of her.

My friend.

My Mina.

I close the journal and quickly pick up another, needing to devour every word he ever wrote about me.

Especially the ones describing memories that I keep locked away in my heart.

Memories of me falling in love with him.

August 14th Kent, England.

In two days’ time, Mina will be throwing another lavish affair to celebrate her 18th birthday.

I’m not sure if I’m dreading having to rub elbows with every London socialite or if I’m just scared to give her the birthday gift I bought her.

I must have searched every jewelry store in London for someone who could help me fashion the pendant just like I imagined it in my head.

Luckily, I found one that understood my vision in Camden Town.

The velvet box has been burning a hole in my pocket for the last month or so.

I have no idea why I’m so fucking nervous, but I am.

What if she doesn’t like it?

What if she takes one look at it and fakes a polite smile?

Fuck.

And when did making Mina smile become so important to me anyway?

These are the questions I have asked myself nonstop lately.

And the answer to all of them…is what scares me most.

August 16th Kent, England.

It’s two in the morning, and I’m still wide awake.

All because I can still feel Mina’s lips on mine.

I’m in hell.

Literal hell.

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