~SCARLETT.

We were back in the hall, the sound of laughter and chatter all around. Jake had insisted we return, claiming this was supposed to be about us. "A chance to enjoy ourselves," he'd said. "To reconnect."

I'd agreed because he was right. Liam had left, and so had his clingy girlfriend. That alone made it easier to relax. I didn't need her weird glances or Liam's unsettling presence messing with my head.

As for Liam himself, if he thought I'd sneak off to meet him ...