I sit still in the driver’s seat, my fingers tightening around my phone. My heart slowly sinks to the bottom of my stomach, heavy and confused, while my eyes remain glued to the two of them. I can’t hear what they say, but the way Lila tilts her head and the way my father’s shoulders lower slightly, like he is relieved, sends a cold wave through my chest.

What is going on?

Why is my best friend meeting with my father?

Why in a hotel?

Why secretly?

My mouth feels dry as dust. I stay inside ...