Chapter 68

Emily’s POV

The late afternoon sun slanted low in the sky, painting the city in warm hues, but my chest still felt heavy.

I couldn’t get Ava’s words out of my head, you’re scared of being happy.

She hadn’t been wrong.

Happiness felt like a fragile thing, something Sophie could snatch away the second I dared to hold it too tightly.

I was still thinking about it when my phone buzzed again.

It was Jace.

Meet me at the square. Don’t ask questions.

I stared at the message, a smile tugging at my lips despite myself.

Jace had a way of making things sound like both an order and an invitation.

I typed out a sarcastic reply: bossy much?

before slipping my bag over my shoulder and heading out.

The square was already buzzing when I arrived.

Colorful lights blinked against the fading daylight, carnival rides whirring and whistling, music spilling from every direction.

Children laughed as they clutch