Chapter 72: Mistaken Desires
Kiel
I was still reeling, my head pounding and thoughts crawling through the thick haze clouding my mind, when the celebrant and his mother began making their way toward me. The boy looked so proud, his eyes bright, his mother by his side, smiling gently—clearly intending to express gratitude or maybe just exchange a few words of appreciation.
They didn’t make it far.
Before they could reach me, Michelle stepped in—sharp and deliberate. She placed herself directly between us like a barricade, blocking their path with unnerving ease. Her hand brushed my arm possessively, her stance daring anyone to challenge her.
The boy’s mother slowed. Her smile faltered, replaced by a look of polite confusion. Her brows furrowed as she took in the atmosphere between us—something she hadn’t expected to wade into at a birthday celebration. I could feel her unease ripple out like a breeze on still water.
"How can I help you... sir?" she asked, her voice careful, her eyes flicking between me and Michelle.
I couldn’t respond. My mouth opened, but no words came. My mind was fogged, everything around me spinning slowly. My lips moved before I could stop them.
"Josie?" I breathed, barely a whisper, but it slipped out into the open air like a prayer.
The woman blinked, startled, but Michelle caught the shift in the moment and lashed out—her tone sharp, her posture aggressive.
"Mind your own business," she snapped, with a venomous edge that startled even me.
The mother stiffened, lips parting in shock, but Michelle stepped further in, asserting dominance like she was marking territory. The warmth that had briefly filled the air turned brittle, tense.
"I was told by Varen to pick him up," Michelle said coolly, her voice steely with practiced control. "It’s urgent. He’s just playing."