Chapter 23

EMILIA

We spend the rest of the day trying out different rides. After much persuasion—more like straight-up bullying—Liam drags me onto the rollercoaster. And after I promptly throw up everything I’ve eaten today, he tries to make up for it by taking me on the teacups. Not exactly the apology I had in mind, but at least I don’t feel like I’m dying.

Hours pass in a blur of flashing lights, laughter, and the kind of fun that makes you forget why you were even here in the first place. No thoughts of the press, no contract hanging over my head—just this.

By the time Liam pulls up in front of Tessa’s place, I’m exhausted but weirdly content. I unbuckle my seatbelt and hop out of the car, only to realize he isn’t following. I turn back, finding him still sitting behind the wheel, looking… confused?

“Why aren’t you coming?” I ask, waving him over.

He runs a hand through his already messy hair before finally unbuckling. “I don’t know, kinda feels like I’m being