who is also forceful and determined.
Matilda Avalon Klein, who wants to build fantastical worlds for people to play in; who is likely to sing if someone plays the guitar.
The kid he never got to know.
I don’t want him to remember only Melinoe, a character in his imagination.
As I’m walking up the driveway to Hidden Beach, Holland texts back.Babycakes, we are just out by the pool. Do you want me to come with? I’m family now. Maybe I can help?
I tell her no thanks, but her offer feels like a hug.
—
In the dark,my phone pings. It’s Tatum.
I am so sorry. Please can we talk?
I don’t reply, but he keeps texting.
Meer explained a lot today.
About Kingsley being Kincaid Sinclair. And Meer and you being cousins with Holland.
June is very upset. She didn’t know any of it.
Meer thinks you went to Holland’s but he texted her and got no answer.
We’re all worried.
There is a pause. He doesn’t seem to be typing. I am thinking about what to reply, when another message comes in.
Matilda
Supernova of a girl
The most interesting person I have ever met, with the most unusual mind
My thoughts come back to you over and over
I’m filled with regret
I want to fix things, change things, figure out how to make amends
I don’t know the answers, at all
Maybe I could figure them out by talking to you?
I wish you would come back
I hope these texts aren’t too many
I am so, so sorry
I will stop texting now.
I stop walking. I read everything over and over.
And I soften. Because I want Tatum, and I love how he sees me.
