Page 144 of Seeking Shadows

Zane spent the night reaching out to me, telling me about all the people whoarereal. He even made a list, just in case I needed it. And honestly? I love how he never looks at me like I’m some kind of freak.

He doesn’t invalidate my feelings. He held me while I cried all night over the loss of someone who never existed, and even though it might seem silly, it meant everything to me.

Today, I feel better.

I’ve decided I won’t stay trapped in this golden cage.

It’s not good for my mind. And honestly, I need to enjoy the freedom while I can, because I know it’s just a matter of time before my father changes his mind. I just need Laura to keep her end of the deal and get Zane out before it’s too late.

Mia:I’m going to Tony’s restaurant.

Zane:Stay away from that idiot Adam.

Mia:If he’s there, I’ll talk to him. But don’t worry, husband, I know who I belong to.

Zane:Only if you promise to stab him in the balls if he even looks in the wrong direction.

Mia:I promise.

Zane:That’s my girl.

I smile. The butterflies. God, the butterflies.

Tony’s restaurant smells like freshly griddled pancakes and sizzling burgers. The chatter of conversations blends with soft country music, and I immediately feel like I’m wrapped in warmth—like stepping into a cozy embrace of food and laughter.

I head straight to the counter, because Tony always gives me extra waffles when I sit there. And of course, just as I’m settling in, Adam’s voice floats in from beside me.

“What’s up, little adventurer?”

I turn and find him grinning at me, a beer in hand like he owns the place.

“Oh, hey, Adam.” I give him a mischievous smile. “Still working for your grandfather?”

He laughs, leaning his elbow on the counter. “Always. But tell me, where’s your jealous boyfriend?”

I raise an eyebrow. “Husband.”

I force my cheeks to stay cool—though the heat creeping up my neck proves he saw the cameras.

He isn’t fazed, though; instead, a sly smile plays at the corners of his mouth,and he lets out a laugh. “Ah, so things are even worse than I thought.”

“Why does everyone talk like that?” I shake my head, grabbing a piece of the bread Tony brought me. “We just got married. Normal, right?”

“Very normal.” He grins. “Especially when it’s an accident.”

I’m about to answer when it hits me.

“You’re from the Society of Crow.”

He pretends to wipe the counter, a smirk playing at the corner of his mouth. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“You are,” I say, hands on my hips. “Are you going to tell me why you really work with your grandfather?”

“Nope.”

“I thought people from the Society of Crow were rich.”

“I never said I wasn’t.” He shrugs, looking almost amused.

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