Secrets of Us A Forbidden Love Romance (Alina)

Chapter 208

Wishing He Stayed-1

It's midnight.

The numbers from my phone stare back at me, mocking me. I sigh, closing my eyes for a beat too long. When they pulse, I open them again.

I should be asleep. Jake definitely is, with his arm over my waist, his breath slow and even against the back of my neck. Usually, that would be comforting enough for me to get me sleeping.

But I'm wired. Eyes wide open, heart thudding like it's trying to beat its way out of my chest.

I sigh softly and shift onto my back, careful not to wake him. The conversation from earlier replays in my mind like a song I can't stop humming.

The way he looked at me.

The way his voice cracked when he said he shouldn't have let it become what it

is.

Obsession.

That word sits heavy in my stomach.

him. His face is peaceful in sleep, softened by the darkness. There are creases around his eyes, lines that have

with my gaze

youth or perfection. He's real. Tangible. Warm. But still, I wonder

Is this wrong?

see myself as a naïve, desperate girl who clung to something she shouldn't have?

shake my head. No. I won't regret this. Not Jake.

1/3

Wishing He Stayed-1

from around me and slide out of bed. He stirs but doesn't wake. I make

from the stove clock. I open the

chew the inside of my cheek for a second before making up my mind. It's not that late. The gas station down the street is still

crisp and cool, brushing against my skin

a beeline for the freezer section and grab a pint of cookie dough. Comfort food.

the door jingles as I walk out, and I'm halfway down the sidewalk when I

Too familiar. I stop.

loud and obnoxious.

Sadie. Of course it's Sadie. She's standing there with two other girls, Will,

I take a step back, hoping they don't

falling apart, why would tonight go smooth? Sadie stops the group, her jaw dropping in mock

"Oh