We end up getting snacks at a convenience store and just eating them while we chat walking down the sidewalk.
“What does rejecting a fated-mate do?” I finally ask, needing to get my curiosity off my chest.
Bailey gives me a sidelong glance, a strained smile pulls across her lips. “Rejection cuts off the mating bond. Completely severs any emotional or physical connection you might have had.”
“Completely gone?” The idea brings a well of sadness to my stomach. “That sounds serious.”
Bailey nods. “It happened to Ness, you know? Fate usually gets it right but when he met his mate, she was already married to someone else, with one kid and another one on the way. She wanted to stay with her family, she rejected Ness.”
“Then it wasn’t a big deal?”
“It was a huge deal. They both were in pain for a while. I don’t think he’s ever really gotten over it.”
“Pain?”
“Yeah. Like, physical and emotional.” She winces.
I press my lips together in a thin line. I don’t want to hurt Ant. Or myself.
“It’s really the final option,” she says. “I’m not telling you not to do it, but it is serious. You should consider it carefully.”
“How do you do it?” I’m nervous even asking.
“From what I understand, you just say it.” Bailey shrugs. “I reject you, Pontius. He needs to be around you. You really have to mean it. But you could practice now, if you like.”
I shake my head solemnly. That feels too serious, like a risk I don’t need to take.
I don’t miss the way that Bailey smirks at my refusal. I move our conversation to lighter topics on the twenty-minute walk to the art gallery. The event is on the second floor of an old building, above a cute vintage shop. The space is packed. Kelly is one of three artists being shown today. It’s a classic art gallery—white walls, wood floors, super specific lighting that I am sure is supposed to make the art look good, but it doesn’t mimic anything I’ve ever seen in a real home.
Kelly is busy when we first arrive, so Bailey and I circle the room admiring the art. I show her which ones are Kelly’s. We pause in front of a large piece of a laughing woman. The woman is covered in reds and oranges, like she’s on fire, but also loving it.
“It’s gorgeous, isn’t it?” I ask Bailey.
”Your friend is really talented,” she agrees. “She’s got some great stuff.” Her eyes track a movement behind me. A second later, I’m enveloped in a side hug.
“So glad to see that someone cool is here!” Anam says. “I need someone to hang out with.”
She’s wearing a chic black dress and cute strappy heels. Why do I never think to buy cute heels? I’d probably wear them if I had some in my closet.??1
Anam’s eyes catch on Bailey, she leans forward to whisper in my ear. “I thought you weren’t bringing a date. Who’s the hottie?”
Bay makes a face that implies she heard every word and doesn't mind one bit.
“Anam, this is my friend, Bailey.”
“Just a friend?” she asks Bailey conspiratorially.
“I’m actually engaged,” Bailey says.
“Oh, you move really quickly.” Anam winks and laughs. “And my goodness, look at that rock!” She grabs Bailey’s hand in that overfamiliar way that really charismatic people like Anam can pull off. “When is the big day?”
“Two months!” Bailey flashes her engagement ring in the light.
“How do you know Piper then? She can’t afford a rock like this.”
“This is the cat lady I told you about,” I say.
“Oh, I love Mercutio!” Anam exclaims.
