Standing in front of James, my heart pounded with the weight of the decision I had made. I could feel his eyes on me, searching my face for some reassurance that what I was saying wasn't a dream. It wasn't. I had chosen him—over everything, over everyone—and as difficult as that choice was, I knew it was the right one.
But that didn't make it any easier.
"I'll talk to Vincent tomorrow," I repeated, though this time my voice sounded weaker, as if I was trying to convince myself that I could actually go through with it. "He deserves to hear the truth from me. I owe him that."
James nodded silently, his expression calm but his eyes betraying the storm of emotions swirling behind them. He hadn't said much since I told him. He just held me close, his arms wrapped around me as if afraid to let go, afraid that if he did, I'd disappear like smoke. But I wasn't going anywhere. Not anymore.
