Beyond Reach

Chapter 1: Weird Feelings & Weird Flowers

"Veronica! Get your ass down here, now!" my brother Matteo yelled.

"I'm coming, Matteo! calm the hell down!" I shouted back, rolling my eyes.

I jogged down the stairs and into the living room, where a bouquet of roses sat on the coffee table.

My brothers: Matteo, Tom, and Thomas, all stood around them looking thoroughly annoyed.

"Who's sending you flowers?" Matteo asked, arms crossed like a disapproving dad.

I shrugged and walked over to check the tag.

Of course. Harry.

I groaned. "Relax, boys. They're from Harry," I said, less-than-thrilled.

For context, yes, that Harry. The one who's been hopelessly in love with me since we were kids. And yes, we're best friends. No, I don't know why either.

The roses were (insert favorite color here), and I stared at them like they were some kind of alien object. Why was he sending me roses? Out of nowhere? He was my best friend, not my boyfriend.

I unfolded the card and instantly felt my stomach twist.

To my sweet angel (nickname), you looked so cute today.

Cue the eye roll. My brothers gagged dramatically.

Honestly? The idea of dating Harry felt... weird. Just plain weird.

As I tossed the card aside, the roses shimmered faintly, their petals glowing the exact shade of my mood, deep blue. Great. Enchanted mood-roses. I was so done.

Matteo muttered, "Next time he sends flowers, I'm hexing him."

"Leave him alone," I said. "He's just... being Harry."

But even as I said it, something tugged at me. Not the roses. Not the note. Something else. Like a whisper under my skin. I shoved the feeling aside. I didn't have time for weird vibes today.

I turned away from the flowers, trying not to look annoyed. But as I did, the vase rattled slightly on the table. No one else noticed. Or maybe they pretended not to.

I told myself it was just my imagination. That's what I always told myself.