“Depends on who it is,” I said with a sinister note in my voice.
“We’re just going to delete the video,” Noah said.
Alex nodded then looked directly at me. “I trust you,” then looked down, “both of you.”
He turned and walked toward the exit.
I watched him go. Watched the way he moved through the Kingswell lobby—shoulders back, head up, even with exhaustion written all over him. That classic Alex Harrington mask.
I trust you.
The words echoed in my head louder than they should have.
Trust. Alex Harrington trusted me.
Why did that matter? Why did it feel like something shifting in my chest, something I couldn’t name and didn’t want to?
This was supposed to be over after the race but it was like trying to keep water out of a leaky boat. He just kept seeping back in, those feelings just kept seeping back in.
He looked at me just now like I was the only person who could help him. Like he needed me. And I hated how much I wanted that to mean something.
“He looks rough,” Noah said.
“Yeah.”
“You good?”
“Yeah, I just can’t believe he had the guts to walk over here.”
Noah nodded and was quiet for a second. Then, “So. Best friend, huh?”
I shot him a look. “Don’t.”
“I’m just saying—that’s the first time you’ve ever called me that out loud. I’m touched. Really.” He pressed a hand to his chest, voice going mock-emotional. “Should I get us matching bracelets? Engrave them with ‘Liam’s words, not mine’?”
“You’re the worst.”
“And yet, I’m your best friend.” He grinned. “I’m never letting this go.”
“I know.”
I was smiling too.
Emily appeared from the hallway, walking toward us. Her eyes immediately found mine, then Noah’s, then tracked to the exit where Alex had just disappeared.
She slowed. “Was that Alex Harrington?”
My chest tightened.
“He just came by to say congrats to Noah,” I said, too quick.
Emily stopped. Looked at me. Then at Noah. Then back to me.
“Your rival came all the way over here to congratulate Noah on a debate?”
Silence. Noah shifted his weight and adjusted his satchel.
Emily’s eyes narrowed. “Tell me the truth. What happened?”
