CHAPTER 16

　　Kara

　　Derek halted his steps upon hearing my words. He turned to look at me, and I ran into his arms. He lifted me and kissed me on the lips. I had never seen Derek as happy as that day. I felt happy for him, for us, although deep down, my heart ached. My heart felt betrayed by hearing what I let my lips articulate. I listened to my head but not my heart.

　　"Tell me you mean it, Kara. I beg you. I need you to tell me this is true, or I'll go crazy. Loving you has been painful since he came to town because I don't know what you feel for me. My chest swells with emotion when I see you when you're close to me and smile at me. I've never felt so much love for anyone."

　　"I've told you: I choose you. It's you, Derek. You're the one I want. I love you, Derek."

　　"Oh! I love you, Kara! You're the love of my life," he spun me around. I laughed at his laughter, but I didn't feel entirely happy.