Chapter 15

• Maliyla's POV
• Having Dr. Neal tell me that I had not accepted the rejection was not what I expected. Naturally, I assumed that I had accepted Erick's rejection; after all, it's not like it was written in a fucken HOW TO GUIDE. My initial reaction to Dr. Neal's statement was one of surprise and confusion. It was unsettling to find that I had believed I had accepted Erick's rejection and that I hadn't. It made me question my self-awareness, and it was definitely not the information I had hoped to get, especially after a great day like today. Oh hell, nothing that's happened in the past six months up to now was expected. In addition, Hector telling me I could choose to return home or stay here was another surprise in this conversation. The idea of going back to Erick was out of the question. I loved my parents and longed to see them, but their betrayal made it far too easy to say 'NO,' and there was no way in hell I was returning to Erick. So many thoughts were going through my head that my head was spinning. The biggest takeaway was knowing Hector allowed me to make my own decisions. Having the freedom to make my own decisions was empowering. It meant that I had control over my life and could decide the path that felt right for me. It was a reminder that I didn't have to rely on anyone else's approval or validation, and that I had the strength and independence to shape my future.
• As he traced my cheeks, I felt tingles on my face. Although they weren't as strong as when he kissed me, there was something there. There was a mutual feeling between us. Savoring every sensation of his touch, I leaned into it. The look on his face was intense, and I felt an undeniable connection between us.