Page 142 of Drown My Sorrow

Mael growls. “He’s becoming a thorn in my side. Every time he surfaces, he comes out, splashes his presence all over, and then vanishes off the grid. I truly think he’s found a little cabin in the woods far away from society, but, don’t worry, I’ll get him. He always knows when he’s needed, which means the little shit is watching us.”

I pause. There’s something in that comment that requires some thought, but then Aspyn sends her calm happiness through the bond.

Mael sees the look on my face and winces. “You should go. Don’t wait for her.”

“Go home, Mael,” I say, taking a chance.

Mael’s face stiffens. “We can’t do that.”

“You can. You can take a chance. You could see what happened and make her yours.”

Mael mutters something but looks away. He heaves a sigh. “Yeah, we should go home. I need to know once and for all.”

His dark smile has me wondering if I should feel sorry for the little girl who followed them around.

But then I think of how I fell for Aspyn, and I know little Selene will be fine.

Chapter thirty-four

Aspyn

AspynAged19

Nat frowns at the box and looks at me.

“Are you sure you want to do this? The town will be weird.”

I smile at her obvious concern. “I need to make money. This is a good way to do it.”

I apply the thick eyeliner that makes me look mysterious and then tie the sashes around my waist.

Nat’s eyes widen when I turn around.

“What do you think?”

“I think you look like a psychic.”

I grin. “Yeah, it works, doesn’t it?”

“You’re really going to go through with this?”

I nod. In the box on the table are gemstones I’ve been keeping with placards that explain the meaning behind them. I’ve got dream catchers, tarot cards, oracle cards, and a really gorgeous crystal ball.

Six months ago, Nat found out I can paint cards with elaborate fantasy designs, and because they are hand painted, they are even more valuable and desirable. I had no idea, but she sold a couple online for me, and I’ve invested the money into this.

I pick up the box and limp out to her car. The neighbours stop, staring at me, wrinkling their noses and casting judgement, but I don’t care. Today I have hope.

Nat and I are pariahs. It’s a different location but the same vibe. We don’t fit into these towns.

They avoid us. So I need to make my money from the tourists, and because of the hotel and surfing here, this town gets more people coming through.

Nat sighs and drives me down to the market. I get out and wave her off.

I take a breath and let it out.

I don’t want to be at the mercy of people who can leave me.

I find the stall I’ve rented and set up.

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