“She’s the queen of heartbreak. Plus, she’s super hot. Think of her as my Charles Leclerc.”
I rolled my eyes but shut up. He hit play, and “You’re Not Sorry” floated through the air. Closing my eyes, I focused on the lyrics and realized she really was the queen of heartbreak. When it ended, I met Liam’s gaze.
“Harsh, but I like it.”
Liam whispered so softly; I almost didn’t hear what he said.
“Bella, I need your help.”
I was back on my side, blinking at him with concern. Liam had the saddest expression on his face. Reaching out, I touched his cheek.
“Anything, Liam.”
He took my hand and fell back down, drawing me into his arms. My head settled against his chest and I could feel his heart pounding. I wish it was because I was so close to him, but I knew better. He was holding me so tightly against him that I started to really worry.
“I want to make sure we cover all bases on our quest for a spark, and I might have one piece of unfinished business with my own heart.”
He took a deep breath and then rushed on.
“I need you to come with me somewhere but not ask questions about it. I just… I just can’t go alone. Trust me, I know it’s not fair, and you deserve explanations, but my heart is almost back together and this is the last piece I think I need to fix it.”
Liam pressed a kiss into my hair.
“I’m afraid if I talk about it, I will break it again, so please, just promise me you won’t ask. One day, when I’m sure it is okay, I will tell you everything.”
I would do anything for Liam and, although I wished he would confide in me what had happened to his heart, the last thing I wanted was to push the matter and make it break again.
“Prometto.”
He relaxed slightly and I closed my eyes.
“Do you want to go now?”
Liam shook his head and whispered, “Tomorrow, before bowling, if that’s okay.”
“Of course.”
He just held me for a few minutes longer. I felt his heartbeat gradually stop racing. After a few more minutes, he spoke again.
“Did you pick out a costume for my party yet?”
I sat up quickly.
“We are supposed to come in costume?”
Liam looked at me like I was crazy.
“It’s a Halloween party. Of course, you are.”
“Ugh.”
I fell back into his arms. Where would I get a costume this late? His party was next weekend.
“Can I come as a high-school student?”
“Oh Bella, what am I going to do with you.”
I pinched him.