Seven Years of Love Seven Minutes of Truth

Chapter 2

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.”

he’d given it to Viola, who’d dismissed it as outdated and tossed it

new.

it. I don’t want it.”

are

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

but her actions told a different story. As she touched my arm in an apparent gesture of comfort, she dug her

all,” she added with a sugary smile, “everyone knows you’re Ken’s favorite. There’s no

and I jerked away instinctively. “What are

to the ground, tears streaming down her face.

helping her up with tender concern.

have been my

pinched me. I just pulled away–I never pushed

hardened. “Enough! Viola would never hurt anyone, Why are you saying these things?”