6
I’d occasionally run into William and Melina on campus. Sometimes they were the picture of a perfect couple, all lovey–dovey. Other times they were fighting. But they always made up quickly.
I started to actively avoid them.
Many students whispered behind my back that I had fumbled the bag, letting a golden goose slip through my fingers. They assumed I was cons- umed with jealousy over Melina.
But none of them knew my little secret.
Often, I would wake up in the middle of the night, open my banking app, and stare at the astronomical sum Nathaniel had given me as a betrothal gift. I would count the zeroes over and over again until I drifted back to sleep, completely content.
Summer break arrived quickly. I went home to fish with my dad, completely removing myself from William’s world.
Chapter 1
So, I was surprised when one of his friends called me.
After a bit of small talk, he finally got to the point.
“Sera, the usual place tonight. William wants to see you.”
I was about to refuse.
08:48
“Dress up, wear something pretty, okay?” he added conspiratorially. “I’ll let you in on a little secret: William and Melina are done. For real this time.”
“This is your chance. Seize it.”
He hung up before I could even get a word in.
My dad was calling me to help with the nets. I quickly forgot all about the phone call.
