Page 126 of The Cupid Chronicles

I’m so excited,I could square dance.

The kids have been working on their projects for this art show for months. Some have chosen charcoal, some colored pencils, and still others clay relief and forced perspective. These kids have created some absolutestunners, insanely realistic for their ages, and I couldn’t be prouder.

And even though my personal life is a hot mess, I owe it to my students to give them my very best—the most professional, memorable experience possible. A night to celebrate their creativity and let them shine. That’s what I promised them, so as I get ready, I’m determined to put everything else aside and be here in this moment.

Yesterday, Val called to finalize the catering details Matteo and I had already worked out. When I asked her why he didn’t call—hopefully not being too obvious or pushy—she told me he was out for the day.

I assumed she was covering for him, but I didn’t say so. Val is now my friend, but she was Matteo’s friend first.

A part of me wonders if he’s passed the whole event off onhis staff to handle. He might not even show up, which might be what he needs.

Even though what I need is a full rundown of where his head is right now.

His last text to me gave me a shred of hope, but the more time that passes, the harder it is to hold onto it.

I check my bag for about the hundredth time to see if the rolled up newspaper is still there. This morning, for the first time, I found one in front of my door that was addressed to me.

My heart immediately sank when I saw a sticker on the plastic sleeve with my name on it. I tried not to let my mind spiral, but I failed.

If it’s addressed to me, does that mean the magic is done with Matteo? That what he suspected is true, and it’s fully passed to me?

One thing I didn’t consider before is that Matteo might forget all about the magic the same way Brooke and Liz forgot.

My stomach feels hollow at the thought. If he forgets the magic, will he forget everything we’ve done over the last few weeks?

I reach in my bag and touch the newspaper. I was too scared to open it and rushing out the door anyway, so I just stuffed it in my bag and drove to the school. When I got here, there were parent volunteers waiting for me, and I was thankful for the distraction—but it was like having the telltale heart beating rhythmically in my tote bag.

Every time I glanced over at it, I thought I heard chimes.

Now, about an hour before the art show is set to begin, I’ve changed into my dress, a floral sage green maxi dress with sheer long sleeves and a cinched waist. It’s flowy and makes me feel pretty.

Sometimes a pretty dress can change your whole mood.

Not tonight, though. Because when Dante and Bear came to set up the food table—without Matteo—it was just another reminder that my time with him might really be over.

I think about the sweet, tender moments we’ve shared. All the ways he showed me he was good and kind. And how much it will hurt if I have to walk away.

I’m standing in my classroom, trying not to cry, when I pull the paper from my bag. I make sure my own name and address are still on the sleeve before pulling the paper out and unrolling it on my desk.

Instantly, my eyes land on a photo on the front page. It’s me, with a goofy look on my face, pointing down at a short caption below it. Above the picture is a headline:

Iris Ellington Will Meet Her Soulmate.

Wait. Wait.

Willmeet?

As inI haven’t already?

My heart drops.

Under the photo is a short caption.

It’s been years in the making!

Tonight, at the Spring Brook Elementary Art Show, Iris Ellington will meet her soulmate!

She needs to be on the lookout for a man wearing red. He might appear a little messy at first, but rest assured—he holds the key to her heart.

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