I decided I was overreacting.
Augustus had apologized. He'd sent flowers. He wasn't perfect, but neither was I.
Still, Seth's warning resurfaced: knowing someone wasn't the same as building a relationship with them. Perhaps building one meant patience when our differences emerged.
So when Elena texted about her annual Venetian Masquerade on Saturday, I considered leaving Augustus out of it.
Then I reconsidered. How would he understand my world if I stopped inviting him into it?
Juliette Harper: Costume party Saturday. Venetian theme. Masks mandatory. Would you survive?
Augustus Evans: What time?
I stared at my screen.
Juliette Harper: You're serious?
Augustus Evans: You wanted me there.
Juliette Harper: Only if you actually want to come. Not as an obligation.
Augustus Evans: Juliette. What time?
Juliette Harper: Eight. Black tie beneath the ridiculous.
Augustus Evans: I'll manage.
I grinned despite myself.
