Page 122 of Symphony for Lies

I leaned against the cold metal railing, my eyes drifting over the water’s smooth surface that was only disturbed by the occasional sway of tall reeds.

I shouldn’t believe in rumors? That wasn’t just rumors. Their relationship had been announced publicly.

Mrs. Cole warned me from the beginning.

And I was the fool.

The home wrecker, as she so kindly put it.

My eyes stung. No. I wouldn’t cry over him. Never.

I bit down on my lip.

Rita was right. Betternow than later.

I could bury the pain. Lock the memories deep inside and forget they ever existed.

Yes. A man wouldn’t be the reason I broke.

My phone vibrated for the hundredth time that day. I ignored it. I didn’t care if a murderer was still free. I didn’t care about what was happening in my town anymore.

I just wanted peace. A moment to myself.

I walked through the park, past the pavilion, where life had resumed as if nothing had ever happened.

Slowly, I trudged up the small hill, listening to the rustling leaves, the birds chirping, and the soft murmur of people passing by.

Life moved on. So, why did it feel like I was stuck?

My arms trembled from the cold. My fingers were numb. But I stayed put until the sky turned orange and the sun dipped below the horizon.

Then I went home.

As I approached my house, I spotted Zane leaning against his bike, and my body betrayed me before my mind could react. A familiar warmth spread through my chest. He looked so damn good.

I didn’t want my pulse to race. But it did.

No.

I dug my nails into my palm.

No.

I wouldn’t let myself feel like that.

As if he sensed my presence, Zane lifted his gaze from his phone, his lips curling into a soft smile until he got a good look at my face.

He walked toward me, and his warm hands cupped my cold cheeks.“You’re freezing. Why the hell is your jacket open?” His voice was laced with concern. “Come inside—”

I pushed him away.

He froze, his eyes searching mine. “Amelia. What’s wrong?”

“Don’t touch me. Ever again,” I managed to say steadily.

His pupils dilated, and his face fell like I had punched the air out of his lungs.Just as quickly, he reached for me again, but I stepped back.

“What happened?” he asked, voice cracking.

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