Page 86 of Veil of Obsession

The anxiety is killing me, and I know I’m starting to regret the fact that I didn’t tell Lucio the truth. It’s past six in the morning when my phone buzzes. I look over to the nightstand where it’s sitting and pick it up, seeing that it’s a text from Tiana.

Tiana:

Hiya babe.

Just wanted to let you know that I’m back in New York. Would love to hang out tomorrow if you’re available.

If not, no pressure. Just let me know when you’d be able to.

Me:

Hey…

I’ll have to check with my mom, but I’ll let you know.

How have you been BTW? How’s Beau?

Beau is Tiana’s fiancé. He was her high school boyfriend, and they have been together since they were thirteen. Considering that we’re in our twenties, I’d say they’d fared quite well.

Tiana:

That sounds great! I’ve been good, thanks for asking. Beau and I are moving in together soon. I really can’t wait. What about you? Anything new?

Me:

OMG! You guys are finally moving in together??? YAY. And nah, there’s nothing new going on.

Tiana:

Okay, I’m not saying you’re lying and I want you to spill, but my bullshit radar just went off.

Me:

LOL. Beau needs to stop validating your craziness.

Tiana:

Never.

I snort and shake my head. I should probably get up and actually dress for breakfast.

My mother is standingat the bottom of the stairs beaming at me.Fucking beaming.

What on God’s green earth is going on?

She’s holding a bouquet of flowers. And not just any flowers. My favorite flowers. A soft lilac wrapping paper holds the arrangement of saffron crocus, gypsophilas—more commonly known as baby’s breath—and asphodels.

I finally reach the bottom of the stairs and ask, “What’s this?”

“It’s a bouquet that was delivered five minutes ago, for you.” She’s still smiling as if she has just won in life.

I grab the obvious card from in between the flowers. “Who’s it from?”

Her smile drops, my question clearly irritating her enough that she feels the need to sneer in my face. “Obviously Daniel.”

Right. Obviously.

I flip the note open and read the lines written on the inside.