Chapter 0366 , Zaia places two mugs down on the table, making me jump and I frown, trying to push the thoughts away, refusing to go down that train of thought. , “Sorry.” She apologises, taking the seat opposite me gracefully. , I shake my head. “You didn’t do anything. So how long are you here for?” I ask, trying to make conversation. , She tilts her head, her gorgeous locks tumbling over her shoulder as she picks up her coffee mug. “I’m not sure. I don’t want my being here to make things worse,” she answers softly. , My stomach sinks and I shake my head. “Never. I’m happy you’re here and I’m asking you so we can plan some nights out.“‘ , “You have work, remember? We aren’t in our twenties anymore, and we can’t party all night and cope with work with a hangover,” she laughs. “Especially as a doctor.” , I chuckle. “You’re right, honestly, I’m too old for all the partying, but who said anything about clubbing? We can go for dinner and go shopping. The theatre even. And we’ll be back in time. See? We can make it work.” , “I like the sound of that. I have the full day here tomorrow and I’m leaving the following morning, so we’ll do something after work tomorrow.” , I nod, I think I’ll like that. , It’s late in the night and Zaia and I are both in bed, her back is to me, and I think she’s asleep as I stare at the ceiling. Zade hasn’t returned, although it is past midnight, and I’m unable to sleep. I’m worried, about him. Worried that I’ve hurt him… , I turn and look at the back of Zaia’s head, the sudden urge to tell her what I’m going through on the tip of my tongue, but I hold back. I know she might understand. This is Zaia… but would Sebastian understand? , I sigh softly, turning onto my side, I gaze out of the small window and stare up at the moon that is partially masked by the clouds. , I’m sorry… , My eyes are almost shutting when Zaia speaks. , 15 BONUS , “Val?” , My eyes snap open. Is she awake? , “I just want to let you know you can talk to me. You know I’ll always be there for you.” She murmurs. “There’s no judgment or criticism between us, remember that.” , I stay quiet for a moment before reaching behind me, smiling softly when my hand touches hers. , “Thanks Zee..” I whisper as we clasp hands. , She’s right, there is no judgement between us. She’s been that person I can talk to who has always accepted any decision I’ve made. She’s had my back and I’ve had hers. , I take a deep breath. Zade isn’t in his room and now is my chance. What do I have to lose, anyway? , “I’m falling for someone, Zaia…”, I hear her turn, letting go of my hand before taking it with her other one. She doesn’t speak, letting me carry on. , I close my eyes, my heart thumping. “He confuses me… he makes me feel things I shouldn’t. I shouldn’t even think of falling for him. I shouldn’t, but I am. But I’m also confused, ridden with guilt. Jai… how do I face anyone?” , Sucking in a shuddering breath, I gaze out of my window as I continue. “My heart is torn, Zaia, and I have no idea what to do. Does he even deserve a chance , Everyone does, and what he said that day hit hard… but why do I need someone. else to reassure me? , Because I’m scared. , “Don’t think too deep. If he makes you happy, Valerie, that’s all that matters. Everyone deserves a second chance at love and life. I know things are hard, and feeling guilty is natural, but when I have given Sebastian so many chances, why can’t you give him a chance?” , I pause. For a moment I almost thought she knew who I was talking about… she doesn’t, does she?, Search the website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.