Chapter 83
***
I had become quite used to letting go, something that had been a constant in my life.
Neglect from my parents, a lonely existence, and severed relationships had been the norm. If I hadn't entered this novel, I likely would have lost touch with the friend who showed it to me.
That's why I didn't readily open up to anyone; I didn't harbor expectations. It had been my way of life, and I believed it would remain so.
Yet this place was surprisingly warm and inviting. What I once considered familiar felt strangely foreign, and I was adjusting to what used to be unfamiliar. Even in moments like this, as the sadness of parting weighed on me...
"Lili."
Aiden, seated across from me, flashed a smile and cocked his head. I returned the smile and made my move with the chess piece before me.
"Having you here does feel a bit strange."
"Yeah, it does."
‘I never expected to end up at Michael's mansion, after all.’
