Chiara
This is supposed to be a celebration of my success with Vedant, but I can’t feel any of it. Throughout the night, I am numb, playing back what Alice said over and over. Thinking of Vedant and the decision he made.
It eclipses all the joy around me. No matter how many people approach to congratulate me, I find that my smile is more from muscle memory. And all the while, I strain to see Vedant out of the corner of my eye.
But its nice to be around Matthew. He always seems to be nearby and alleviates some of the pain that prickles me at random. With him, my laughs come easily, and occasionally, I even feel that my smile is genuine.
If only it could make me forget.
Eventually, Matthew suggests that we steal away for a drink. I’ve hardly ever drank in my life, but this is a celeb
