HIS INTENSE declarations were followed by a massive volume of laughter within the crowd— including the Sandoval family, except for Daphne. August closed his eyes and clenched his fists, trying not to bring their laughter straight into his heart.

But it was to no avail. He could feel his heart breaking. One of his hands traveled onto his chest and clutched it while breathing heavily. His chest went up and down as he did that.

All of them found August's claims amusing. Nicole even held onto her