Chapter 130

Scarlett Kathleen lifted both hands in exasperation. “I said no, obviously! I told him I don’t want to settle down, I don’t want a mate, and I definitely don’t want to get married to someone I barely know. But does he listen? Nooo. He insists he’s not going to give up. Says he just wants to get to know me, spend time with me, and see where it goes. Honestly, Scarlett, I’m this close to pulling my hair out.” She pinched her fingers together for emphasis, then slumped against the counter beside me. For a moment, I was too shocked to respond. Then, quietly, I asked, “And how do you feel about it?” Kathleen shrugged her shoulders before looking away. “I don’t know. Part of me thinks he’s insane. Another part… I don’t know. Maybe I’m too tired to deal with it. I would like to be free not to be tied down. And yet—he’s relentless.” I bit my lip, not knowing how to say anything to her. Kathleen had always been outspoken, fiery, stubborn. It made me feel uneasy seeing her actually in conflict.