84. THE WANTING HEAT

HOLLY'S POV “Holly, do you remember Madam Gina? She’s having her birthday tonight. I want you to escort me,” Grandma said, her knife rhythmically slicing through the vegetables on the cutting board. I paused mid-chew, chips crunching faintly in my mouth, and turned towards the dining room where she was stationed. Her tone was soft and calm, but I knew better. “Why do I have to go with you?” I asked, pulling another chip from the bag as if it could shield me from her inevitable response. Grandma didn’t even look up. “Because I need you to carry a few things. You don’t have to stay long.” I stared at her in disbelief. “You’re serious?” I muttered, already regretting my life choices. She wasn’t going to let me sit this one out. An hour later, I was stepping out of the house in a green dress that was barely decent, more like a glorified nightgown paired with a leg chain and grey slippers. My hair was in a messy bun, secured with a butterfly clip that screamed last-minute effort. I didn’t c