Wicked princess

Jace smiles. “Good. Because Dylan and I really want you—”

“Hold on,” Dad interjects, as if he’s pondering something. “How about we compromise?” 

I’m game. “Compromise sounds good.” 

Jace doesn’t share my enthusiasm. “What kind of compromise?” 

Dad strokes his chin. “There are seven bedrooms at home, which means there is more than enough room for everyone.” He looks around at all of us. “Why don’t you and Cole move back in?” He clears his throat. “Of course you’re welcome to invite Sawyer and Dylan as well.”

Jace’s nostrils flare. “Are you out of your damn min—”

“It’s not a bad idea,” I cut in. 

Not only do I love the notion of spending more time with my family and Sawyer, being at home might help fix my memory like Dr. Jones said. 

Unfortunately, Jace is quick to shut it down. “It’s a terrible idea, Bianca. I know you don’t remember, but there’s a reason I moved out shortly after I graduated high school.” 

My face falls. “Oh.” 

My disappointment must be tangible because he sighs. “But I want to give you the best chance for recovery, so I’ll do it.” He glares at Dad. “Under two conditions.” 

Dad’s sigh is expansive. “What’s that?”

“One—I’m doing this for Bianca, not you, so don’t think this fixes shit between us. And two—Nadia isn’t moving into Mom’s house while we’re there.” 

I can tell Dad wants to argue, but he’s a smart man and for once puts his children first. “She won’t move in until after the wedding. You have my word.” 

Cole looks at Sawyer. “You down for a temporary address change, Bible Thumper?”

She tugs her lower lip between her teeth. “I don’t know.” 

“Please,” I beg, even though I probably have no right to. “I can’t remember our friendship, but something tells me I’d really like having you around.” I flutter my fingers. “I’ll even let you paint my nails.”  

I feel a closeness to the girl I can’t really explain. Plus, she has a really good aura. 

At that, she laughs, folding like a cheap lawn chair. “Okay, fine. If you really want me there…I’ll do it.” 

Dropping my crutches, I throw my arms around her. “You’re the best.” 

She freezes briefly before hugging me back. “Oh. Um…this is…nice.”

Cole laughs. “Told you she turned soft.” 

And just like that, the nagging feeling in my gut is back with a vengeance. 

Who the hell is Bianca Covington?