My Pretty Sweetheart (Arianna)

Dead silence instantly filled the car.

It was obvious that Samantha was willing herself to be calm. However, we didn't know if she was trying to assuage Evan's worry or deceive the wolves prowling around her home.

"Don't be afraid." Evan suddenly tightened his grip on the cell phone, and I could see his strong, defined side profile from the rearview mirror. "I'll come back right away."

Hanging up the phone, Evan immediately slammed on the accelerator, his gaze trained on the red traffic light. After a while, as though recalling that I was still sitting in the back, he turned around, his face a deadpan mask, and said, "Sorry, Madam, this is as far as we go. If you will please get off the car."

Since I had heard it, there was no reason for me to stand idly by. "It's all because of us. I'll go with you."

There was a deep crease in between his brows. "I'm sorry, Madam. I don't mean disrespect, but I think that things will be much simpler if you don't show up."

The ugly feeling of being untrusted spiked through my veins. I tried fumbling for my words but couldn't find any that would express my goodwill.

In the stalemate, Evan decided for me. He got out of the car and opened the door close to me without hesitation, and said in an unyielding tone, "Madam, please."

But I didn't want to be a spectator who only cared about myself. I remained where I was and held his gaze, refusing to get off the car.

the green light flickered to life. The car behind us kept beeping its horn, hurrying us to get out of the way. The

in the long stalemate. "Madam, have you forgotten the three slaps

extent, Andrea could not find a chance to humiliate Evan

anxiousness. Looking at his face, the scene of

I

on me to see one more person bear injuries

got off

movement so sudden that

my

swn Startled

Evan.

second before nodding solemnly. "Thank

getting in the car, Evan quickly started the

much longer history than me. Hendrix would

I hoped.