Chapter 17

Chapter 17

After six months apart, we’d both changed. Aiden looked different thinner, with sun–lightened hair, but still unfairly handsome in that effortless way that had made half our high school swoon.

I might have been naive about people, but I always had good taste. It’s probably why I’d spent years following him around like a lovesick puppy, convincing myself that the boy next door was my destiny. Looking at him now, I could still see why but the view was different when you weren’t looking through rose–colored glasses anymore.

After a moment’s pause, I walked over with an easy smile, the kind you give distant acquaintances. “Hey,

Aiden! Didn’t expect to see you here.”

seemed to throw him more than anything else – no trace

luggage.

leaned in, whispering an explanation: “We ran into him outside. He insisted on coming to help. Wouldn’t take no for an answer – you know how he

it was fine.

midnight pizza runs and failed attempts at doing laundry. While we all carefully ignored Aiden’s presence, I caught him fighting back smiles in the rearview mirror,

we all politely deflected with that practiced suburban courtesy that says “not today” without actually saying it.

kept busy with driving lessons (finally getting my license) and meeting up with old friends. I heard through the grapevine that he tried to catch me several times, but I was always conveniently out. Mom mentioned he’d stop by, looking like a lost puppy,

puzzled why he’d even try – what could we possibly have left to say to each other? Some stories are

our traditional family dinner (complete with my dad’s infamous attempts at grilling in winter), the older generation settled in with their shows while us younger ones attempted to learn poker,

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255