I pull myself up, start moving toward the front of the estate where the crowd's gathering toward whatever comes next. Together or alone, I'm done running from what I feel.
I'm Blake Delano.
I saved six girls from White Ember, I burned my uncle's evil empire the hell down, and I chose the woman I love over the family that raised me. And I'd do it all again. Without hesitation. Without regret.
Because that's who I am now.
That's who I choose to be.
Chapter 9
Peyton
I’m focused and don't look back at either of them as I head up the stairs to the attic. I decide that I’m just going to get my Mom’s things and as much of mine as I can pack quickly. I decide when I text Blake not to tell him that Silas is here, an easy choice. If he knew, it would probably turn into an even worse shit show than it already is.
Me: I’m packing up. I need about fifteen minutes.
Blake: You good?
Me: Yep.
Outside, Blake's car is parked at the end of the driveway. He's leaning against the hood, arms crossed, looking like violence barely restrained although I’m not sure why.
He grabs the duffel out of my hands. "You're four minutes early."
“And you’re mad about that?”
“You look rattled. Who was in there?”
“I’m not rattled,” I look away from his stare. “But I did have it out with my father.”
“And who else, Peyton?” He opens the passenger door for me. Always the gentleman, even when he’s pissed. “You can’t lie to me if I’m going to protect you. You can never lie to me.”
“It was Silas.” I slide into the passenger seat. "Silas was there.”
“What?”
“He was sitting there when I walked in.” I exhale harshly. “He’s been telling my father that you've been manipulating me. That you're feeding information to the Kingsleys and have been for weeks. And that you manufactured a threat so you could be the hero and save me.”
Blake's expression darkens. "He's trying to isolate you. Make you doubt me."
"I know."
"Did it work?"
I look at him, really look at him.
"No," I say. "It didn't work. Because, unlike my father, unlike Silas, and unlike everyone else in this town, I believe that you’re the only person who’s never lied to me."
Blake is quiet for a moment. I’m not sure what he’s thinking, and some might infer that it’s out of some misplaced guilt, but I bet it’s just him considering whether I’m actually sincere or just saying what he wants to hear.
“You’ve got more here than a dress and some jewelry.” Something in his expression softens. “Did your father kick you out?"
"Essentially."
"How do you feel about that?"
“We’re sharing feelings now?”
