Still, she would relay those exact words to Michael. With that, any chance of something between Michael and Dulce would disappear entirely.
Fiona understood it wasnât fair to Dulce, but as long as she remained unattached, she would continue to hold the most significant place in his life.
If Michael found someone new, Laceyâs memory would begin to fade, and Fionaâs connection to him would weaken. She couldnât bear to lose that.
âYouâre young and talented. Youâll find someone whoâs perfect for you,â Fiona said.
Any further conversation would be filled with empty formalities, and Dulce clearly had no patience for that.
âIâm leaving now,â she said flatly, her voice devoid of warmth.
âOkay.â
Fiona watched Dulce walk away, her figure retreating into the distance. With a sigh, she tightened her shawl around her shoulders and turned toward the villa.
As she approached, she noticed the door slightly ajar, her pulse quickening. Her instincts were rightâMichael stood behind it.
âMichaelâ¦
What did you say to Dulce?â
Michaelâs expression was grim, and Fiona felt a pang of guilt.
âWhat did you say to her?â he repeated.
Fiona hesitated, sensing that Michael wasnât angryâhe was desperate. His need to know everything about Dulce was palpable.
Her throat felt dry as she swallowed, her lips tightening into a thin line.
âMichael, I just thanked her. I didnât say anything else.â
Michael didnât respond, the silence hanging heavy between them. Fiona shifted uncomfortably, unsettled by the despondency that clouded his face.
âMichael, I came today to discuss something with you.â
âWhat is it?â
âI want to place my sonâs tombstone next to Laceyâs. They were the most important people to me, and this way, they can keep each other company.â
At the mention of Lacey, Michaelâs expression darkened further, his features hardening.
It was as if two opposing forces were violently tearing him apart from the inside.
After a long pause, Michael waved his hand dismissively, his voice devoid of emotion. âItâs up to you.â
Fionaâs anxiety spiked at his reaction, and she couldnât hold back.
âMichael, what does that mean? Donât you care about Lacey anymore?â
Michael unexpectedly turned, locking eyes with Fiona, his gaze hollow and filled with despair.
Fionaâs breath hitchedâshe had seen this look before. It was the same haunted expression Michael had worn in the days following Laceyâs death, when he had drifted through life like a lifeless shell.
Who was he grieving for now?
The thought terrified Fiona, and she quickly looked away, unable to meet his eyes.
âWhat more can I do to show that I care about her? Should I take my own life to join her in death?â Michael asked.
.
.
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