"But notyourradar."
She said it like I was no better than Evan. "Just what are you getting at?"
"Why ask me?" she said. "You've got 'sources'. You probably know everything."
"About you?" I scoffed. "I doubt it."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
If this were funny, I might've laughed. "You won't even tell your roommate you spilled her bubble bath."
"So?"
"So nothing. I'm just saying, it's not exactly normal to be that careful. You're what? Worried she'll flip because of an accident?"
"I never said that. And besides, we're not talking about the bubble bath." With a hard swallow, she looked down at the bottle she was still clutching in her hand.
And now I felt like an ass. "Tessa—"
She looked up. "What? You're gonna tell me that I'm all messed up? That I feel this stupid need to be perfect?" Herbreath hitched. "Well, guess what. I'm well aware. And yes, I'm also aware that it's stupid, but maybe I've got my reasons."
"Which are…?"
"Nobody's business. How's that?" And with that, she turned to walk away.
I couldn't let her go. "Hang on."
She whirled to face me. "What!"
Fuck.Deliberately, I softened my tone. "I didn't mean to upset you."
She made a sound, something between a scoff and a sigh. And then, she held up the purple bottle. "So, do you want this back?"
I stared. "No. Why would I?"
"Because the answer's no. I'm not gonna move in."
I glanced at the bottle. "It's a gift, not a bribe. Do youwantto give it back?"
She answered in a near whisper. "No."
The relief I felt should've been embarrassing. "Good."
"But let me pay you for it."
"Forget it. You could try, but I wouldn't accept it."
"Look, I'd just give it back, but…well, I really want Maisie to have it. It wasn'therfault I messed up."
"And maybe it wasn't your fault either."
"But don't you get it?" she said. "Allof it's my fault. Now Ireallyneed to go."
Again, I stopped her. "Wait."
"Look, whatever you're gonna say, don't. Please?" Her shoulders sagged. "I need time to think. So just give me some space, alright?"
I wanted to argue. But instead, I pointed to the bike. "You don't need to walk, remember? You've gotthat."
