Page 32 of Always Mine

Sophia:

It was an absolute train wreck. It’s like new year, new me: the Chucky doll edition.

Stella:

*Chucky gif*

Sophia:

Dad was in fine form. Not only did he orchestrate for Arty to be at this god-forsaken dinner, but he also added fuel to the never-ending war of words with Luca by sitting Arty in his chair.

Evie:

I’m sweating just reading this. Breaking the Princi dinner table seating code! The ultimate betrayal.

Sophia:

Oh wait, but there’s more!

Stella:

Can we stop for an intermission? I feel like I need a stiff drink and some popcorn *laughing emoji*

Sophia:

Then Daddy-dearest basically agreed to me co-chairing the law gala with Arty and accepted an invite on my behalf to be his plus-one for a photography exhibition this week— but not before insulting the arts and my “silly little photography hobby!” I’m literally sitting right there, capable of answering for my motherfucking-self. But all I could focus on was a glowering Marco who was acting like the attentive boyfriend of my literal dreams, drawing calming circles on my inner thigh and placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder.

Stella:

Three times. Ride him three times. Then straight to the list. It would be a missed opportunity.

Evie:

Not helping, Stella.

Sophia:

But before I can even form a coherent thought, Sebastian decided it was the night to finally grow a pair and call my Dad out for being dismissive of his and Luca’s success. Raf just mutters a few expletives to acknowledge the way things have gone from bad to worse.

Evie:

That’s new for Sebastian…

Sophia:

And between the mayhem, Marco gets a text. Reads it. Smirks like the cat that got the cream, then promptly informs me and the entire table I’ll be going with him to said exhibition and basically claims ownership of me.

Sophia:

I believe his exact words were: “And Patrick, you might want to get used to the idea, but the only arm Sophia will be on from now on is mine. Not at all sorry to say, you’ll need to find yourself another plus-one, Arty.”

Stella:

For the record, he did get the cream last night *devil emoji*.

Evie:

Stella, are you high?