Page 58 of Sinner's Salvation

All three of them greet me, and we move toward the living room. The little girls run in circles while Aiden falls asleep on his father’s chest. It warms my heart how Kieran watches his son with pride and love. Aurora kisses her boy on his cheek and goes on her toes, kissing Kieran’s lips. Even surrounded by everyone, they seem to be in their own world. Cato and Hayden pour themselves a glass of alcohol, deep in conversation.

Cameron stops at my side and says, “Is this okay?”

I don’t know what to make of him when he is so considerate.

“They’re your family.”

“Yes, but they’re your family too. You already have me to disturb you. I don’t want to overwhelm you.”

“Thank you.”

He offers a nod and walks over to Cato and Hayden. I watch Chiara and Alessandra pretending to catch their daughters while they shriek and giggle. The difference in their personalities is striking. Chiara’s daughter is like a warrior princess, climbing on the couch and jumping up and down. Alessandra’s little girl is more quiet, sitting next to her mother and observing everyone.

I take a seat on the opposite side of Aurora and Kieran. He lifts his chin, and his inquisitive eyes land on me. He has such an intimidating presence; his features are rough yet polished.

Everyone gives me space, maintaining their physical distance. I get the impression it’s because they want me to get used to their presence but not overwhelm me. That’s quite thoughtful, putting me instantly at ease.

Seeing the dynamic between Hayden, Cato, Kieran, and Cameron is fascinating. They’re a unit. The women are tight as well; their ease around each other is enviable. I sigh. I want to fit in too and have people to call actual friends.

When they leave, we accompany them to the door, saying goodnight. The men carry their sleeping children, and the women wave at me.

It was more than okay. I never felt the need to bolt through the door and hide in my room.

Cameron’s body heat envelops my side, unbalancing me.

“I’ll be in my office if you need something, but I won’t pressure you anymore tonight.”

“That would be new.”

His voice lowers, making goose bumps spread over my skin. “Don’t provoke me.”

“What if I do?” rolls from my tongue. His eyes darken. A tremor rocks my body, a tremor I’m not familiar with. I rush up the stairs with his laughter trailing after me.

“Smart girl.” I hear him say.

I close myself in my room, my heart still thumping.

***

The next three weeks are a struggle. It’s always one step forward and three steps back, and it’s frustrating. The flashbacks are the worst. One moment, I’m sociable, going outside and engaging in conversation. Then, in the next, I find myself locked away in my office, mumbling during meals.

It doesn’t help that Cameron ignores me most of the time, only to remind me of the deadline hanging over my head like Damocles’s sword.

Five weeks later, I know nothing about my husband. I thought the situation was ideal initially, but now it’s making me sad. All he wants is for me to be ready when we make our big debut.

Today, I just give up trying. My thoughts are holding me hostage. I can’t put myself under any more pressure. Afraid my sanity will snap, and with my mother’s encouragement to do what feels right, I spend the entire time recharging by playing.

Feeling better, I get up. Night has replaced day, the bright moon casting the forest in a dim light, and artificial lights bathe the property. I think I set a record playing time.

The door flies open, and his annoyance is palpable in the heavy air around us. My hand flies to my chest. I’m startled, not afraid. Nothing in me fears him. I feel safe—foolish prey trusting a predator.

His hair is messy, like he raked his hand through it many times. His shirt is unbuttoned halfway, making him look less refined and more unhinged.

A delicious shiver rolls down my back. Knowing I affect him is exhilarating. Maybe I wanted a reaction. Now I got it, but I need him to push me.

“You missed dinner.”

“Well, why didn’t you come get me?”

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