Page 59 of Through You
Adrenaline? Or pure rage?
I walked away without saying a word about the state I was in, and went downstairs, with Claudia following closely behind.
Although I never told her, I was grateful she followed me that day.
Fucking grateful.
When I finally snap back to reality, I’m welcomed by the sight of Claudia carefully bandaging my fist.
“Claudia, how can I stop wanting you? How can I stop myself when you’ve been by my side every time I’ve ever needed you?
When we share too many memories?”
I sense movement, and when I glance over, Apolo is standing at the door. He’s holding an ice pack to his cheek. I feel terrible for hitting him now that I’ve cooled off—I’ve never hit my younger brother. I’m about to say something when I realize he’s not looking at me.
Apolo lowers his head and leaves. I turn back to Claudia, who is now gathering the contents of the kit she used to clean and bandage the wounds on my hand.
“Try not to move your hand too much, and make sure to change the bandage tomorrow morning,” she orders as she gets up.
“Thank you.”
She nods at me before turning to leave.
“Good night, Artemis.”
“Good night, Claudia.”
I watch her go. And although tonight I’ve let her out of my room, I know deep down I’ll never be able to let her out of my life.
When it comes to her, how could I ever?
Seventeen
I was waiting for you, Claudia.
CLAUDIA
Grandfather has regained consciousness.
I was in school when I received the call, and the bus took a long time to get to the hospital, so I’m the last one to arrive. I was so relieved when I heard Mr. Anthony had woken up, but I need to see him with my own eyes to feel completely reassured. I’m a little surprised to find Raquel sitting outside the room. Ares must be getting serious with her if he brought her along.
While I’m happy for Ares, I can’t hide the concern in my voice. “How’s he doing?”
“Apparently, he’s doing fine.”
I let out a long sigh. “That’s great. I came as soon as I heard.”
She gives me a curious look. “Have you met their grandfather?”
“Yes. I’ve spent most of my life living in the Hidalgo house.
My mother took care of him a bit before they put him in a nursing home. Anthony is very special to me.”
“I would imagine. What’s it been like to live with the Hidalgos most of your life?”
Her question makes me chuckle a little.If you only knew,Raquel. “It’s been interesting.”
“I can’t begin to imagine. I bet one of them was your first crush.”
