Chapter 70. A Love Like This

Lila’s POV

The door slammed behind me before I could even get my brain to catch up.

I didn’t even look back at Ryder. Didn’t see if he waited. Doubt he did. Pretty sure he drove off the second I shut the door.

No goodbye, or anything. Just nothing. I didn’t mean for any of this to happen, I didn’t mean most of the things I said, I was standing up for Ryder, for us and now I doubt if Ryder sees it that way. And now, standing on the porch and feeling suddenly cold, I wonder if he would ever speak to me again.

I pulled my hoodie up and went inside.

I thought Mom had another shift today and I was already appreciating the silence when I realized the kitchen lights were on.

Oh boy.

Mom was there, she was sitting at the table, like a statue. Straight back, arms crossed. And her face was blank, but tight. Like she’d been waiting. Probably had.

I stopped right at the doorway. Just stood there. Bag still on my shoulder like it could prote