I yawned widely. "True. Doyouthink he's telling the truth?"
My best friend hesitated before answering. "Niall has no reason to lie to you anymore. I know him fairly well. Maybe he had motivation to lie when it first happened and he thought there was a chance to get back together, but now it would serve him better just to admit that he chose Larson and ask you to forgive him."
"I guess," I said.
"For now, focus on figuring out whether Jonah is your fated mate. Balancing your magic is more important than possibly reviving an old relationship, regardless of your emotions."
I rolled out of my handstand. "Even if I don't like Jonah?"
"Love can grow."
"He lovesGwen, Callum."
Merrily started snoring softly as she fell asleep on the floor.
"I'm so tired," I admitted. "I want it all to be over."
"I know."
"I just want to be happy again."
"You'll get there."
Exhaustion dragged me under too. I lowered my head to the rug and managed to doze a little.
Kat and Callum murmured for a few minutes before they left. He took the bottle of cider and dumped whatever was left in the sink on his way out.
In and out of the haze of sleep, I almost texted something to Niall. Then tossed my phone aside, so I wouldn’t message him.
My anxiety started to spike thanks to my dramatic magic an hour or two later, and I stumbled to my feet, deciding to jog home since I obviously wasn't anywhere near prepared to drive.
nine
NIALL
I scrubbedthe dishes in Liv's sink violently, fighting hope, confusion, and worry.
Why wasn't she answering her fucking phone?
The front door opened, and my relief was unreal.
Followed by my anger.
I stepped into the hallway, dish towel hanging over my shoulder, and Liv blinked at me. She was sweating, her skin was flushed, and her hair was disheveled.
She looked me up and down.
Then did so again.
"Did you go running alone? In the middle of the fucking night?" I growled.
She blinked. "How'd you get in?"
"Who were you drinking with, Livvy? Where did you run from?" My voice was dangerous.
She glanced at the door behind her, like she was considering making a run for it, as she rubbed her eyes.
I crossed the foyer, locking the door behind her and taking her by the waist when her knees knocked together.
