Before The Storm

Chapter 12

I decided to throw a party, a grand affair to reclaim my throne and remind everyone who I was. It would be the perfect way to showcase my power, a celebration of my comeback that no one could ignore.

When the night of the party came, I slipped into a vintage Givenchy dress, my hair cascading down in waves. I felt invincible as I stepped outside to greet my guests. The music thumped, laughter filled the air, and the atmosphere was electric.

As people arrived, I reveled in the attention, moving through the crowd with confidence. I made sure to mingle, reminding everyone why they had once feared me.

I scanned the crowd, my heart sinking when I realized Cole wasn't there.

I had expected him to show up, to be part of this triumphant moment. His absence left a gap I couldn't ignore.

I tried to push it aside, engaging with my guests and flashing smiles, but I couldn't stop thinking about what he would have said if he were here. Would he have teased me about my grand entrance? Would he have been impressed by my plan?

Amidst the party's buzz, Jamie approached me, his eyes sparkling with admiration. He leaned in closer, a playful smirk on his lips. "You're incredible tonight, Maddy."

"I know." I replied.

"Can I be honest?" he said, leaning closer, his eyes sincere. "I really like you, Maddy."

I felt a flutter in my chest, surprised but intrigued. "Really? After everything?" I asked, trying to gauge where this was headed.

He nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Yeah, despite it all. You're strong, and I admire that. You don't let anyone walk over you."

A smirk tugged at my lips. "You know how to flatter a girl, Jamie."

He laughed softly, his warmth inviting. "I mean it. I want to be there for you, no matter what happens."

As Jamie leaned closer, the noise of the party faded into the background. My heart raced, a mix of anticipation and exhilaration. He paused for a moment, searching my eyes for any hesitation.

I gave him a small nod, and without another word, he closed the distance between us. Our lips met softly at first, and I felt a rush of warmth spread through me. The kiss deepened, igniting something inside I hadn't felt in a long time.

It was unexpected yet perfect, a brief escape from the chaos surrounding us. When we finally pulled apart, I could see the surprise mirrored in his eyes, both of us momentarily caught off guard by the intensity of the moment.

"Wow," he breathed, a grin spreading across his face. "That was... nice."

"Yeah, it was," I replied, unable to hide my smile.

Eventually, he leaned in again, his breath warm against my ear. "Wanna get out of here?"

I hesitated for a moment, but the thrill of the night pushed me forward. "Let's go."

We slipped out of the party, laughter spilling from our lips as we made our way to his place. Once inside, the atmosphere shifted. The playful banter faded, replaced by an intensity that crackled in the air between us.

Jamie's hands were on me, his lips trailing down my neck, but my mind felt distant, like I wasn't really here. His touch was familiar, but it didn't send that electric thrill through me the way I thought it would. I tried to focus, tried to let myself get lost in the moment, but something wasn't clicking.

His breath was hot against my skin, and I felt his body pressing into mine, but it was like I was floating somewhere outside myself, watching it all happen from a distance. I closed my eyes, willing myself to get into it, to feel something. But no matter what I did, my body wasn't responding like it should.