PURPLE HEART - Soliders Of Fortune [BOOK TWO]

Chapter THIRTY

Sunday 'Sunny' Santos

My evening with Verity and Luka passes in an uneventful and unexpectedly pleasant way, with only minor conflicts breaking out sporadically, much like spot fires I'd done my best to douse before they grew out of control.. Without the favour of their older brother to fight over and restricted to good behaviour by the tender nature of my pregnancy, the two begrudgingly settled into a temporary truce..
They chose to share few verbal exchanges, each electing to communicate directly with me instead of addressing each other, as well as avoiding eye contact and close proximity..

It had of course been awkward at times, sure.. But still a welcome improvement upon the last time I'd seen them together at the Casino..

Somewhere in between the uncomfortable silences and snarky comments, Verity had found the grace to genuinely and generously offer her help with the wedding plans and I'll admit I'd been touched by her gesture of good will.. Of course I found it difficult to sustain my anger with her after that and we easily slipped back into our natural dynamic of her running the show and me letting her think she is in charge..

It's just easier that way with Verity..

I am smart enough to take the course of less resistance.. She is a force of nature, beautiful, hardened and vicious on the outside, but inside I know there is a soft heart.. Even if she tries to hide it..

Still, I was surprised to find her simple act of kindness would spur a competitive Luka to volunteer his own assistance planning my upcoming nuptials, and before I knew it a date was set, he had a venue booked, and V was on the phone to florists, caterers and god only knows who else..

When Verity asked me what my favourite flowers were; I told her I'd always loved Gardenias..
When Luka asked my favourite colour; I told him it was midnight blue..
When Verity wanted to see what I looked like with my hair up instead of down; I sat patiently while she experimented on me as if I were a dolly for her to makeover..
And when Luka asked if there was anything important to me that I'd like to do before the wedding, there was only one thing I could think of to request; To talk to my Abuela..

I know she would give me those steadfast words of wisdom I need to hear.. And perhaps part of me wants to ask for her forgiveness, for disrespecting the sanctity of marriage and dishonouring our family name by going along with a fraudulent wedding that is guaranteed to end in divorce..

I wonder if she will ever forgive me?

I wonder if I will ever forgive myself...

Even with the forced comradery and strained vibe of the evening, somehow those few hours the three of us spent together were the most fun I'd had in such a long time.. I'll admit, it felt nice having them both fussing over me and making me feel special, even if it was only for their older brother's approval.. For the first time since I left Oaxaca, I didn't feel empty and alone..