Page 30 of Fervency Love

I notice something is bothering him as we’re leaving.

“What’s up?” I ask.

“I was thinking about something.”

“Oh yeah?” My interest is piqued.

“Why don’t you ever let me wrap my arm around you or something when we’re out together?”

“Because I don’t want Dad to know about us or for someone to see us. Does that bother you?”

“A bit. I’d like everyone to see you’re mine.”

“And am I?”

“Aren’t you!? I thought that was obvious. Should I ask if you want to be my girlfriend? We’re not in primary school anymore.”

“No, but you can ask if I want to be with you.”

“I don’t have to.”

“Oh really? And why is that?”

“Because you’re mine!”

“But I want to know the date of our anniversary.” I refuse to let it go.

“If that’s the case, you’re mine from now on.”

And when I least expect it, he takes my hand and laces our fingers. The jolt I know so well now passes through my body, top to bottom, and my heart quickens its pace. Adrenaline courses through my veins. I’m scared of what my father will say, but I’m so excited at the same time. I love it when Ve’s this confident and decisive. I glance at him. He’s holding my hand harder now. He lifts it and places a kiss on its back, presenting me with the most beautiful smile I’ve ever seen. It’s so full of happiness and delight. I’m his. That’s a given.

Chapter 16

Abby

It’s my Ve’s birthday today. I bought him a hoodie that’ll bring out the color of his eyes. We’ve arranged to meet before five. Unfortunately, Dad said I’m not going anywhere. Some people are about to come change our windows. Of all the days, it had to be today. Just my luck. What am I going to do now?

Taking my chance, seeing Dad has gone downstairs, I dial Ve. He picks up at once. He’s inconsolable. I’ve never heard him this way.

“If you can’t be punctual on my birthday, why even want to meet me?”

“Listen, it’s not my fault. I’ve been ready for an hour! I’ll be there as soon as I can. I’m so sorry. I can’t help it.”

I pace the room, fuming. Is Dad doing this on purpose? Why the fuck would he want me here to oversee the works?

It’s six now. Finally, I can go out, so I practically run to my beloved Ve. I hope he’ll forgive me. On the other hand, I keep wondering about that violent reaction to me being late. It’s got to be a deeper issue.”

“Hey there, kitten.” He leans over and kisses me on the cheek.

“Hi, Ve. Happy birthday,” I say, giving him the present, meticulously wrapped in gift paper.

“For me?” he asks, surprised.

“Who else? Is anyone else celebrating their eighteenth birthday today?”

He glances at me, unwrapping the hoodie. I notice he’s thrown off balance. Finally, he manages to dig through the layers of paper and uncover what’s inside. I watch his reaction. He likes it.

“Well, say something,” I say, holding my hands to my face, fidgeting nervously. What will he say?

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