CHAPTER 23

I stand tall and as strong as I can. Of course, loud whispers and gasps erupt in the room. "Hi everyone." I said in a small voice. I look around, meeting everyone's eyes with a smile. When I catch sight of my brother, his face lit up in confusion and happiness. He looks sick. His skin pale, his body too slim. He looks like he needed a shave too. Oh, Ace. What's happened to you? My pang with pain and regret.

He stands forcefully, rushing toward me and pulling me into his arms. "Is it really you?" He asks, his voice cracking. "Yes. It's really me, Ace." I tell him my eyes flowing with tears. "You look so different..." He sobs, pulling away to look at me. I nod. "I know. But it's me. It's really me." I grip him tighter.

Elijah pulls me away from him growling and envelopes me in his arms. Ace backs away, understanding. "It's okay baby, he wont hurt me." I tell him, running my nose along the coller bone of his neck. He growls. "Babe. Trust me, please." I beg and kiss his lips.