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I choked back a sob.

I loved him, and I couldn’t have him.

It was because I loved him that I had to let him go.

And that was the worst part of all.

Chapter 28

THE FOLLOWING MONTHSwere hell, but there was nothing I could do about that. Still, I couldn’t stop thinking about him.

I’d been resisting asking Rafael how Luca was doing, but now I couldn’t wait any longer. Maybe if I knew he was fine and had moved on, I’d finally find peace.

“I want an update on Luca,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady. “How is he?”

“He’s fine. He’s actually going to college now, and he bought himself a really nice, expensive car with the money you gave him.”

A small smile spread across my lips, but my chest hurt even more. “I guess he’s living a regular college life, with lots of partying and girls. Is he seeing someone?”

I regretted even asking. Hearing about it would probably rip my heart to shreds, but maybe it would help me too.

“Um, not exactly. He went out with some guys a couple of times, but then he stopped. He’s not really hanging out with anyone. He’s mostly alone.”

“What?” I furrowed my brow. “Are you sure?”

Rafael gave me a deadpan look. “Come on. You know we have him watched 24/7 to keep him safe. If he was with someone, we’d know.”

“Are our guys scaring people away from him or something?”

“No. They’re not idiots. I’m sure no one can tell who they are and what they’re doing. It’s Luca who doesn’t want to be with anyone. I heard he’s getting a lot of attention from women, but he always rejects them.”

“Why?”

“Do you really have to ask me that?”

I supposed I didn’t.