Page 84 of Twisted Fate

Tristan holds my watery gaze, his expression soft and solemn.

For the number of moments he’s made my head spin, his presence now is steadying. It’s exactly what I need to get through the rest of Adam’s eulogy.

I return to my chair and stand with my parents as the urn is placed into the ground. Mom, Dad, and I step forward and drop roses on top of the soil after it has filled the spot where Adam’s ashes now lie. I close my eyes as wetness trails down my cheeks, and my parents wrap me in a sob-filled hug while we all say goodbye to Adam one last time.

My house is filled with people after we return from the cemetery. I don’t remember whose idea it was to have a reception here, but if it was mine, I’m regretting it now. A grieving person can only handle so many offers of condolence and hugs from people they should know the names of but don’t. That’s what happens when you have a huge family. I’ve been offering smiles and accepting hugs from family members I don’t know for over an hour now, and all I want to do is sneak to my room and lock myself inside until everyone leaves. Allison and Oliver are around here somewhere, helping my parents by handing out drinks and whatever sympathy food people brought with them. I feel guilty, but they’re such social people, they don’t mind chatting with my family.

I’m leaning in the doorway to the living room when a hand touches my shoulder, and Tristan shifts closer to kiss my cheek.

“How are you doing?” he whispers.

“Honestly?” I sigh. “I want to get the hell out of here.”

He slides his fingers through mine and gives my hand a gentle squeeze. “Why don’t we get you something to drink?”

I lean back into his chest and glance up at him with an arched brow.

“Tea or coffee, sweetheart,” he says.

I purse my lips. “What about coffee with something a lot stronger?”

“I’m not sure that would be a good idea right now.”

“Yeah, you’re right,” I grumble.

“What’s that now?” he checks.

I roll my eyes. “I’m not going to say it again, Tris. Nice try.”

Before he can say anything, Mom approaches, offering a small smile. “Hello, Tristan,” she says.

“Mrs. Marshall,” he greets in a warm tone, reaching out to shake her hand. “Please accept my deepest condolences.”

“Thank you for being here today and for being so supportive of Aurora.”

“Of course. It’s been my pleasure.” He steals a glance at me and smiles.

I look over at my mom. “How are you doing?”

Her smile fades. “I’m hanging in there. Your father has barely left my side since we walked in the door. He’s talking to your uncle right now, so I thought I’d sneak away and check on you.”

“You don’t need to worry about me, Mom. Please take care of yourself and make sure Dad is doing the same.”

She blinks, trying to clear her watery eyes. “You’re my daughter, Aurora. I will always worry about you.” She glances past me to where Tristan stands. “Maybe you two should get out of here for a bit,” she suggests. “Go grab lunch or something. I’m sure we can hold the fort for an hour or so. You’ve been so strong during all of this, Aurora. Take a break.”

I shake my head. “I don’t need to, Mom. It’s okay. I’m not going to leave you and Dad to talk to all of these people.”

“Please, Aurora. This is your mom taking care of you.”

“Okay,” I concede. “Please call me if you need anything.”

“Deal,” she says, stealing a quick hug before walking back into the living room, where a group of people pull her into a conversation.

When Tristan pulls into the parking lot of one of the most expensive restaurants in the city, I shoot him a look.

“We’re not eating here,” I say, glancing over at the people walking into the building with suits and formal wear. “We could’ve gone for something more casual.”

“Is that what you want?” he asks, tapping his fingers against the steering wheel.

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