Chapter 21. Tension

Shimma’s POV

I sat on my bed, arms folded tightly across my chest, feeling the familiar knot of frustration. I hated this for my mother. Even after I had told her I didn’t want to see Blake, she still called him.

“Knock, knock.”

“Shimma, what is wrong with you? Why did you leave?” My mother’s tone was a mix of concern and irritation.

“I told you not to bring him here! Why do you always try to make my decisions for me? He dumped me! And you expect me to forgive him? This is bullshit!” My voice rose, anger bubbling over as I struggled to contain it.

“It’s not about forgiveness. I just want you both to talk. Who knows? You might end up—”

“End up what?” I cut her off, my pulse quickening. I stood up from the bed, urgency driving me to the door. I needed to see her face, to understand what she was thinking.

I flung the door open, and there stood Blake, wearing a pitying expression that only fueled my anger.

“Shimma, you’re seriously