Shadows and Stars: A Darker Love ✔

Chapter Thirty Four

I made a huge effort before Hailey arrived home. I cleaned the house from top to bottom, changed both of our bed sheets, prepared a lasagna and even filled the fridge with wine and beer. The beer for Lucas, of course.

I had nothing to feel bad for, and Hailey and I are on good terms now, but I want to kick start the New Year's celebrations as best as I possibly can.

***

The screech of Lucas' Volkswagen Golf outside indicates their arrival, and as I sweep some crumbs off the counter I smile at the sight of my best friend hurdling up with pathway with my brother in tow.

"Welcome home!" I chime, throwing open the front door with the biggest smile on my face, the house now completely spotless.

Hailey runs in, looping her arms around my shoulders as Lucas places her bags onto the floor.

"Oh I've missed you Mia!" She groans. "It's so great to be back!"

I smile, watching as Lucas lips grow into a smile too. It's nice to see them both happy for once. Actually, it's nice for us to all be happy; it seems such a rarity recently.

***

The next day Hailey and I venture into the city to look at dresses for the New Years Eve party that's come around quicker than I can even comprehend.

By the time evening comes around, I'm a bag of nerves, because I know I'm going to see Anderson tonight after all of this time—and after everything that happened between us. But I'm also nervous for the fact that Lucas will be there, watching my every movement. Hopefully, if he has enough to drink, he'll relax a little bit.

In my bedroom, I slip on my newly purchased black silk dress and slide my feet into a pair of white heels. My dark hair has been curled and I've made extra effort to tailor my makeup into a sparkly fashion.

I take the bracelet that Hailey bought me for Christmas from its box, sliding on the beautiful piece of silver jewellery onto my wrist. I twirl the star charm within my fingers, smiling as it twinkles against my bedroom light. Simultaneously, I stare at the draw where I've hidden away the necklace that Grayson bought me. I hesitate; I know the necklace would compliment my look tonight, and I briefly think about wearing it.

What harm would it do if I were to wear it? It was a gift after all; a gift that Grayson bought me when things were good between us. No one would ever know it was from him—except Hailey—and it wouldn't have to mean anything anyway. Plus, it's gorgeous, and it seems a shame for it to be tucked away in a draw.

Reflexively, I pull the drawer open, grab the necklace and hook it around my neck. Stood parallel to the mirror, I smile, touching my hand to the heart shaped charm that sits just above my breasts. Wearing this necklace brings me so much comfort, yet so much heartache, but I love how it looks on me and against the dress, so I don't remove it.

I want to remember what we had, and this necklace allows me to do just that.

Exhaling, I smile when my look is complete, and I'm met with a suited and booted Lucas when I venture downstairs.

"You scrub up well," I chuckle, taking my shoulder bag from the bannister and throwing it over my shoulder, stuffing my phone and purse inside.

Lucas smirks, straightening his bow tie in the hallway mirror. "You're not so bad yourself." A rare wink flies from his right eye, and I find myself blushing.

     "Thank you."

     "I'm ready! I'm coming!" Hailey sings, practically leaping down the stairs. Her silky blonde hair bounces gracefully with each step she takes, her emerald green maxi dress and new earrings from Lucas glimmering against the lights. She looks beautiful really; her makeup smoky and only enhancing her natural beauty. "Right, Uber's outside so let's go."