Chapter 81
It wasn’t hard to figure out where the funeral was taking place with some simple online searches. The decision—the hard part—was deciding whether or not I was attending. We’re on a break. It’s only been four days, yet it feels like a lifetime.
Fuck it. I’m going. I call her, but it goes straight to voicemail.
I want to be there for her. I want to hold her. The thought of Declan being that guy … I hate it.
In my car, I put in the address and see it will be about a two-hour drive to the funeral. The funeral has started when I arrive, and I decide to stay in my SUV for a few minutes.
Part of me begins rethinking what I’m doing. I don’t want to cause a scene, but I want Dani to know how serious I am about her and how much I care for her. Stepping out of my car, I take a seat in the back. Dani and Declan are sitting next to each other in the front row.
Looking at the people in attendance, I understand what all the rumors about Declan’s life before Cryptoball are all about. I think it’s safe to say they are true.
My eyes, however, are glued to Dani. She’s in a sleeveless black dress and very comfortable with Declan, playfully nudging his shoulder here and there.
They’re close, but it’s not like the energy we have when we’re together.
I really hope she didn’t kiss him. I want so badly for her to only want me.
The crowd disperses, and I stand, waiting behind the back row of chairs for the two of them to walk past. Dani and Declan spot me in the crowd. Dani immediately smiles, her big, beautiful, amazing smile, while Declan’s face is hard to read.
Approaching, he shakes my hand, and I say, looking into his eyes, “I’m glad he’s dead.” I feel sad that Dani was with someone who hurt her.
Declan leaves, before saying, “Keep her happy.”
I look at Dani. “Do you want a hug?” She immediately wraps her arms around me. I hope this is the start of us getting back to being together. “How were the last few days?”
“Very emotional,” she says into my chest.
“Is it okay that I’m here?”
“Yes,” she says, squeezing me tighter.