I stumbled backward, pushing Aaron away. I could see the hurt in his eyes, and regret surged through me. Just as I was about to explain myself, I heard Jake's voice behind me. I froze in fear, praying that he didn't misinterpret what had just happened. All I wanted to do was comfort Aaron, but now it felt like I had done something wrong.

"What the fuck are you doing, bro?" Jake demanded to know.

"Claiming what should be mine," Aaron said.

"I'm not yours, Aaron! Stop saying ...