His Entertainer

chapter 26

                         NORMAN POV.

The knowledge that my actions would wound Genevieve, break Carlos’s heart, sadden Miguel, and enrage Hermann gnawed at me.  But I did it for all of them. They adored Ivy, a fact that was both a blessing and a curse.  Attachment, even a slight one, was a vulnerability in our world. I couldn't risk it.  I’d almost lost Eve, and the thought of reliving that terror, that pain, that unbearable fear, was enough to paralyze me.

This might seem personal, born of some grudge against Ivy. But it wasn't. If it were, I would have simply eliminated her—a quick bullet in the woods would have been far simpler. But I wanted her to gain something from this, too.  I’d discovered her past entanglement with Wilmert Grants, a connection she hadn’t fully severed. I’d never had the heart to tell Hermann, but I knew this information would prove useful.

My internal monologue was interrupted by a prickling sensation, an instinct that someone was behind me. I turned slowly, and there she stood—the woman who had stolen my cousin’s heart. Ivy. Her eyes were glassy, her expression a mask of carefully controlled emotion.  I saw the turmoil within her, the conflicting desires battling for dominance, despite her best efforts to hide it.

“Yes, Ivy?” I asked, my voice carefully neutral.

“I’ve thought about it,” she began, her voice trembling slightly, “and I’ve reached a decision.”

“And may I know your decision?” I asked gently, my heart pounding against my ribs.

“You’re right. I’ve brought nothing but misfortune to your world… and honestly, I admit everyone here has tried their best to make me feel comfortable,” she said, her voice catching.  “Even Hermann.” The pain in her voice was palpable.

“Honestly, I’ve grown to care for you all, and I want what’s best for you,” she paused, gathering her courage.  “I don’t want to be Hermann’s distraction from his future… I’ve decided…” She swallowed, blinking back tears.  “I’m ready to go to Wilmert.”

“Are you sure?” I asked, despite the million reasons why I shouldn’t care, the question escaping my lips.

“Yes, I am,” she affirmed, nodding firmly. “Any plans?”

“Go to the wedding with Hermann as if nothing is amiss. Wait for the signal, then tell him you need to use the restroom. There, you’ll meet a woman in a short, merlot red dress. You’ll exchange clothes. Without looking back, you’ll head for the back exit.  Once you’re through that door, you’ll be outside the invisible protection. Are we clear?”

“What’s the signal?” she asked.

“The bridal toast,” I replied.

“Listen carefully.  Make sure it takes less than ten minutes, or Hermann might suspect something before you can escape,” I added, my gaze unwavering, my words sharp and precise.

“Understood,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.  “Thank you.” I patted her shoulder. “It’s for the best,” I reassured her, though a cold dread began to grip my heart.
 

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                        IVY SILVER POV.