Chapter 28 - 32
TW: Trigger Warning: Proceed With Caution.
I wash off my makeup for the third time because I can’t stop crying.
This cursed dinner party that Governor Adler is hosting tonight. I would ditch it, conjure an excuse, but I promised Grayson—pinkie promised. That’s practically a sacred vow. I swore I’d come, so I will come. Because that’s just what Avara does... she does what she’s told with a smile and no questions asked. An utter pushover and people pleaser. But I didn’t think I was. I’ve always just tried to be thoughtful, considerate and kind like she was. My mom, though her memories are romanticized in my head, she is the purest figment in my life.
I don’t understand the full scope of what my father did or what he’s into. I only know that his stain has tainted my brothers. They’re involved somehow, I just don’t know how deep because no one tells me anything. That’s about to change. If they won’t tell me, I’ll find out on my own.
I restart my makeup, putting on foundation, then concealer. I think of my mother, my mind gripping on the last of my memories, and my hand becomes steadier and steadier. Everything was so different then. Not only because things were calm but my dad has always been driven, but my mother’s death fuelled him with vim and vigor. The kind that he wouldn’t let anything stand in his way. At first I found it admirable, inspiring even, but I don’t recognise what moral thresholds he had to cross in order to achieve his biggest political dream.
Once I’m ready, I head downstairs and out the front door, dressed in a shimmering gold dress with long sleeves and a high leg slit with a thin shawl that loops from arm-to-arm to protect me from the autumnal flurries. I enter the backseat of the black Benz with my father already seated next to me. The door closes and shortly we’re on our way.
"You look absolutely remarkable, Avie."
I nod gratefully, not daring to look at him. Even if I don’t say anything, my eyes will betray my truth; and his lie. He tilts forward and I evade his eyes, throwing my gaze out of the window.
"I wonder if there isn’t a reason for it. Though you always look stunning," he disclaims with a little laugh. "I can’t help but think that perhaps someone in attendance is your reason?"
I shake my head stiffly. "Vance is out of the country."
"I’m not talking about your fake boyfriend. I’m talking about Grayson Adler. The Governor wanted me to make sure you came on his behalf. He’s quite fond of you, difficult not to see why."
"Did you hear about the holiday?" I ask, diverting him off topic.