Chapter 17 - A Siren's Call

Claire

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

My playground analogy was coming to life, but instead of metaphorical teasing, Vincenzo had just yanked my pigtail—literally. Shock and annoyance clashed within me like a pair of unruly kids on the seesaw.

I blinked at him, half-expecting him to taunt me with a smirk. But what greeted me was the same maddeningly composed expression, as if he'd done nothing more than adjust his tie. It was absurd. I should've been furious. Yet, my absurdly racing heart didn't quite get the memo.

My face twisted with confusion. Vincenzo's fingers released my pigtail, and I couldn't help but shoot him an incredulous look. "Did you just pull my hair?" I blurted out, incredulous, more surprised than angry.

He merely shrugged nonchalantly, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes. "You seemed like you needed a little shake-up to clear your thoughts."

I huffed, feeling a mix of irritation and bewilderment. "If you think that's how you'll win an argument, Vincenzo, you're sorely mistaken