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Chapter 2
“This dress is Bragi’s latest design–perfect for a wedding, don’t you think? Viola’s words dripped with smugness as she watched me, searching for any hint of a reaction.
“It’s lovely, it suits you,” I replied simply,
My composure seemed to unsettle Ken, whose brow furrowed. “Why were you meeting with my father?” he demanded. Without waiting for an answer, he pressed on, “I’ve already announced my engagement to Viola online. Even if you went crying to him, it wouldn’t change anything.”
Ken had always carried himself with refinement and grace, but now his tone was harsh, almost* oppressive. I met his gaze steadily. “I was just discussing New Year’s arrangements with Uncle Johnson.*
I turned to leave, but before I could reach my room, familiar footsteps followed.
“Calista, I apologize. I shouldn’t have been so harsh.” Ken’s voice had softened as he pulled something from his pocket–a red headband. “Look what I brought you.”
My heart clenched. Months ago, I’d mentioned liking this style of headband. Ken had bought one then too, but he’d given it to Viola, who’d dismissed it as outdated and tossed it aside. Now here he was, presenting it to me as if it were new.
“Keep it. I don’t want it.”
Ken’s patience wore thin. “Why are you being so difficult?”
Viola stepped in, placing a delicate hand on Ken’s arm. “Don’t be too hard on her, Ken. She’s still young,” she cooed. Then she turned to me with practiced sympathy. “Are you upset because we didn’t invite you to the movies? We’ll all go together next time.”
Her words were honey–sweet, but her actions told a different story. As she touched my arm in an
apparent gesture of comfort, she dug her nails into my skin when Ken wasn’t looking.
“After all,” she added with a sugary smile, “everyone knows you’re Ken’s favorite. There’s no need to be jealous.”
Pain shot through my arm, and I jerked away instinctively. “What are you doing?”
Viola’s response was theatrical–she collapsed to the ground, tears streaming down her face. “Calista,. what did I do wrong?”
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Backup Girl No More: Adios To My V–Card and My First Love
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Chapter 2.
Ken rushed to her side, helping her up with tender concern. “Are you hurt?”
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