Chapter 19

Chapter 19

He looked exhausted, with dark circles under his eyes and his usually perfect hair a mess–like he hadn’t slept in days.

“Aiden? What are you doing in California?” Standing there in his East Coast winter coat, he looked completely out of place among the palm trees and students in t–shirts.

“Wanted to see your school. See how you’re doing out here.” His voice was rough, like he’d been practicing this moment but still wasn’t ready.

I kept my tone deliberately light, casual. “It’s amazing here! The food scene is incredible – they have these amazing fusion restaurants downtown. You should definitely check them out while you’re in town.”

shifted uncomfortably, running a hand through his disheveled hair. “Can’t you…

figure out how to let him down gently, another voice cut

in line.” Jake appeared beside me, positioning himself protectively between us, his easy California confidence a stark contrast to Aiden’s intense

each other up – Jake with his sun–bleached hair and laid–back vibe, Aiden with his expensive wool coat and prep school

new world.

edge I couldn’t quite place. Jealousy? Hurt? After

myself anymore. That part of our story was over.

some unspoken guy–code standoff. “Come on, you promised to take me to that amazing farm–to–table place in wine country, remember? It’s a long

away, but not before shooting one last challenging look at Aiden -the kind that clearly said “she’s moved

palm trees, looking more lost than I’d

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