Dark Paradise

13

Anabella

I lay in bed, replaying the events at the library in my mind. Jace's mouth is pure magic. I've never came so hard for head. Well, I've never came from any sexual interaction ever.

This is all so new to me, yet it feels exhilarating. His touch is intoxicating—my body is becoming addicted to the way his mouth and fingers move. But I can't let him know that, not yet. I can't stay away, though. My body craves him more than I can control.

I close my eyes, desperately trying to focus on anything but Jace.

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I woke up feeling refreshed today, the sunlight filtering through the curtains and warming the room. Energized, I decided to braid my hair into two neat sections for work. The braids fell neatly over my shoulders.

"I'll see you guys later!" I call out to Desire and her parents, who are chatting in the living room. They look up with warm smiles, and Desire gives me a wave as I head out.

I walk outside, pulling out my Beats headphones and pressing play on my Chase Atlantic playlist. As the first notes of their music fill my ears, I can't help but smile. I swear, they have no bad songs

I walk into work and make eye contact with Johnny, whose eyes light up. "BELLA! I've missed you!" he exclaims, his voice ringing out loudly. His enthusiasm is impossible to miss.

"Morning, Johnny!" I call out as I head around the counter and slip on my apron. "It's been so busy today! Thank God you're here." Johnny grins and winks at me. "You're probably the best barista here—well, besides me, of course!" His playful boast adds a burst of energy to the morning, and I can't help but laugh as we dive into the day's rush.

Johnny's right—it's insanely busy today; the café is packed to the brim! As if that weren't enough, Desire walks in with her parents, Travis, and Jace.

Desire approaches me, her expression apologetic. "I'm so sorry, Bella. They insisted on having breakfast where you work. I tried to take them somewhere else," she says softly, her eyes full of regret. I nod, trying to balance my smile with the whirlwind of orders.

I wave her off with a smile. "It's okay, Desire. Breathe. You're nervous," I tease, trying to lighten the mood.

She takes a deep breath and whispers, "I just want them to like him." Her concern is palpable, and I nod reassuringly, giving her a supportive smile.

"Are they coming to dinner with us?" I ask, secretly hoping for a no.

"Yes." she says with a grin. "Mom wants Jace there, and Jace insists on bringing Travis." The news sends a mix of anticipation and mild anxiety through me,

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I'm wearing a cute, flowy white dress, my hair tied up in a loose bun with a few curls escaping.

"Anabella! Are you ready?" Desire bursts into my room. Her eyes widen with approval as she takes in my look. "You look hot," she says with a wide grin, making me smile as I finish getting ready.

"Thank you! Look who's talking," I say, pulling Desire out of my room, where everyone is already waiting for us.

Jace's gaze locks with mine, a subtle smirk playing on his lips. I quickly look away.

"Let's go!" Desire calls out as everyone heads outside. She and her parents walk toward their car, then she turns to me. "You want to ride with us?"

Before I can respond, Jace firmly takes my hand. "She's riding with me. Travis can go with you," he declares confidently.