Strings and Schemes

Chapter 27

Zayn, who has been uncharacteristically quiet, steps forward then, offering his hand to my father. "Ambassador Addams," he greets, polite but firm. "It's nice to finally meet you."

My father eyes him for a long moment before shaking his hand. "Mr. Malik," he acknowledges. His tone is measured, unreadable, but I see the slightest flicker of something in his eyes—recognition.

Recognition that Zayn is someone, that his presence here means something.

My mother, meanwhile, is watching us closely, her gaze flicking between me and Zayn like she's taking notes.

"Quite the event," she says smoothly, turning her attention back to me. "We've been following your progress, you know."

I don't know why that makes my stomach churn. Maybe because the way she says it makes it sound like I'm a political asset, not a daughter.

Before I can respond, Louis, bless him, speaks up again.

"Yes, I'm sure you've been just riveted by her art career."

My mother smiles at him, that sharp, practiced thing that has sent lesser men running. "Louis," she says in a tone that sounds almost fond but isn't. "Still as charming as ever."

"I try," Louis quips, "though I must admit, I do find it fascinating that you only ever show up when she's publicly succeeding."

"Louis," I hiss, shooting him a look.

He doesn't apologize, just shrugs like he's merely making an observation.

My father exhales sharply, turning his attention back to me. "Raina, we'd like to speak with you privately before we leave."

I knew this was coming. Knew they weren't just here to congratulate me and leave.

I force a smile. "I'm actually heading to celebrate with my friends now, so I'll have to take a rain check on that."

A flicker of disapproval passes over his face before it smooths out again. "Very well. Another time."

I nod, and just like that, the conversation is over.

They leave with nothing more than a parting glance at Zayn, like they're sizing him up for something.

When they're finally out of sight, I let out a long breath.

Louis smirks. "Well, that went about as well as expected."

I shoot him a look. "You are unhinged."

"I am your most loyal soldier," he corrects. "You should be thanking me."

Before I can respond, I feel Zayn's fingers lace through mine, grounding me.

"You okay?" he murmurs, low enough that only I can hear.

I turn to him, taking in the softness in his eyes, the way he's here, present, not judging me for how complicated my family is.

I nod. "Yeah."

And for the first time ever—I almost believe it.

I think the hardest part of the day is over until Zayn hands me a small envelope.

I blink at him. "What is this?"

Louis gasps immediately. "IS THIS YOUR WILL?"

Zayn doesn't even look at him. "Shut up, Louis."

I roll my eyes and open the envelope. My breath catches.

First-class tickets. To Greece.

I glance up at him, shocked. "You... booked me a trip?"

Zayn shrugs, as if it's nothing. "Graduation gift. Thought you deserved a break."

Cue absolute chaos from the boys.

"ARE YOU KIDDING ME?"

"ZAYN MALIK IS PAYING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY?"

"BABE, I LOVE THAT YOU THINK YOU'RE GOING ALONE."

I barely process any of it, too busy staring at Zayn.

"You're coming, right?"

His lips curve into something smug but soft. "Obviously." And just like that—I know. This isn't just a trip. This is him saying I see you. I choose you.

And for the first time in my life—I let myself be chosen.

"Alright, so rain check on this crazy graduation party?" I offer to my friends.

Niall groans, "Come on - can't you let us go with you! I promise we won't bother your love shack thing."

Zayn and I give each other knowing looks, "Sorry mate," Zayn says, "no more room on the island for anyone else."