Thirty Eight

Lenora

CJ's declaration filled my day with a radiant glow, breathing life into my heart. Hearing him declare his love for me was the best feeling in the world. It sewed up a long-felt emptiness, a puzzle piece falling into place.

It made my soul sing.

Mariselle's moodiness lingered, and because I didn't want to seem insensitive, I suppressed my happiness, saving it for later.

But I couldn't help it. A wistful smile graced my lips, especially when CJ was within earshot. He winked at me, that handsome smirk on his lips.

My face burned like wildfire. I blushed profusely and tried not to let Mariselle notice me staring at her dad like a lovesick fool. If I wasn't careful, it won't be long for me to get busted.

The house seemed to hum with my happy mood, each step infused with newfound lightness.

Humming a melody, I danced to an invisible rhythm as I tidied up Mariselle's room.

She walked past me, brooding and silent. I paused, holding a folded blanket.

"Mari, are you planning on a