Chapter 41: Chapter 41: The Ties That Bind Us

Cionna’s POV

Valentino spoiled me. We had brunch by the docks, and he made it his mission to get as many smiles and laughs out of me as possible. When we were done eating, we cruised down to a small beach and found a carnival set up in an empty lot.

After a few games and some funnel cake, we walked along the beach watching the waves kiss the sand. He had been the perfect gentleman and I needed the day out to feel human again.

A prickly feeling crept up my body and clung to my bones. I'd done my best to ignore it all day, but the pain was starting to pinch. I didn't want Valentino to worry, so I kept it to myself. Knowing him, he'd try to convince me to postpone the ritual tonight. Which was not happening. Tonight was the final piece. By tomorrow morning, I will have my parents back.

I flinch as the pain comes in waves. The smile on my face holds on with determination.

"I admire what you're doing," Valentino declares suddenly.

"What do you mean?"