Page 39 of The Image of You

A few seconds passed, and I heard the door close again. I looked down at her, the moment passing, our bubble broken.

“Your date is looking for you,” I griped, stating the obvious.

“He thinks I’m unwell. He’d want to check on me.”

I didn’t care what he thought or what he wanted. I knew what I wanted.

“I want you to come home with me. Now.”

“Adam—”

Bitterness tinged my voice. “I know. He’s your friend.”

She pulled back, frowning. “Yes, he is. I told Bradley I had a headache. I’m sure he’ll take me home early.”

I scoffed. “I’m sure he’d be happy to.”

“What?”

“Your friend wants you, Ally.”

“It’s not like that with Bradley. I told you.”

“Maybe not for you, but he’s not telling you how he really feels. It’s so obvious, even you should see it.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“The way he looks at you—touches you. He thinks you’re his.”

“He’s only doing it—”

I interrupted her. “He’s doing it because that’s what he wants. He wants more than friendship with you.” I blew out a breath and gritted my teeth. “I know. I saw it with my own eyes.”

She shook her head. “You’re wrong.”

“No, I’m not,” I growled, unable to help myself.

She rubbed her temples, her eyes narrowed in frustration. “Stop this.”

“What? Stop telling you the truth? You’re in denial over his true intentions.”

A chime ran out from her purse, and we stared at each other in the dimness.

“Your boyfriend, I presume.”

“He’s not…” She sighed, her frustration evident. “I have to go.”

I clenched my fists, feeling angry and distraught. This wasn’t how I planned on our reunion going. “Of course you do.”

“Adam, please. Don’t do this.”

I yanked her back into my arms, brushing my lips over her head. “I’m sorry. I’m tired, jealous, and I shouldn’t have come here. I wanted to see you so much I couldn’t wait.” I inhaled her sweet scent. “I didn’t think how seeing you with him would affect me.” I dropped another kiss to her skin. “Go inside before you get cold. I’ll go in a few minutes.”

“You’re leaving?”

“It’s for the best. I’m sorry.”

She huffed. “You’re wrong about how he feels. We’re only friends helping each other.”