Hearts entwined, forbidden love ( Book 5 of Floyrince)

28

Luka

The jet touched down in New York, and the tension on board was as thick as it had been in Philly. Ethan still hadn’t said a word to me or Levi, and I knew he was pissed—he had been since Philly. Even Jay, who usually had a way of pulling him back, couldn’t get through.

The drive to the estate felt like it lasted forever. I didn’t know what to expect when we got there, but as we turned onto the long driveway, I saw the lawn packed with people. It was decked out—lights, decorations, music. The place looked unreal. For a second, I was confused, until I heard the chorus of "Happy Birthday" floating through the air.

I scanned the crowd, recognizing almost every face. Papa and Dad stood front and center, waving me over with big smiles. Uncles Kim, Kenny, Ad, and Trent were all there, laughing with Chris, Kyle, and Big Dee. Even Uncles Brick, Snake, Dylan, Devin, Wyatt, Leo, Zach, Clay, and Leon made it out. My aunts, May and Marisa, were talking with my cousins, and there, right in the middle, were my three grandparents, beaming with pride.

Siblings. Friends. Matt, Brent, and Aisha grinned at me, and even though I’ve never been big on attention, the warmth of their welcome hit me hard. They were all here... for me.

But I couldn’t let it show. I kept my face calm, a little smirk here and there, playing it cool like I always do. Even when the whole crowd sang, I just nodded, nonchalant, trying to blend into the moment without giving too much away.

Then Levi handed me a  box, a crooked smile tugging at his lips. That’s when I let the grin slip, just for him.

You behind this? I asked, eyebrow raised, even though I already knew the answer.

Your dad’s, mostly, Levi said, his eyes sparkling a bit. I was just supposed to keep you out of the city.

He smiled again, a little wider this time. Happy birthday.

For a second, I thought he was serious when he didn’t say anything earlier.

I thought you forgot or didn’t care it was my birthday, I said, shaking my head.

Levi shrugged, looking a little sheepish. Had to act the part, sorry.

All good. Thank you, everyone, I called out to the crowd. Everyone cheered, clapping, and for once, I let myself feel it—the love, the celebration, all of it. I saw a table full of gifts.

Now, let’s party! Jay shouted, arms in the air.

No alcohol for anyone under 21, Papa called out, giving Jay a pointed look.

I laughed under my breath as Jay leaned in close to me. I know he’s not talking to me,he whispered, and I just shook my head, knowing full well he’d find a way around it anyway.

The music was loud, the beat pulsing through the yard as everyone danced, talked, and moved to the rhythm. The DJ was killing it with every track, keeping the vibe just right. I made my rounds, greeting everyone—my uncles, aunts, cousins, and old friends. Every conversation felt warm, and the energy was infectious.

I kept Levi close, though. He handed me the gift earlier, but I hadn’t opened it yet. I wanted to wait until things calmed down a bit. The smell of barbecue filled the air, mixing with the other snacks set up on tables. The huge grill was going, ribs and burgers sizzling, while people grabbed chips and dips from every corner. But there was something else, too, something earthy in the air that I couldn’t quite place.

I moved closer to the crowd gathered near the pit in the ground and spotted Uncle Snake checking something.

Is that fire on the ground? Why does it smell like meat? Are you guys cooking something underground? I asked curious. I leaned in closer to see what was happening.