Chapter 156. Denise Is Awake

“Well, that went well. I guess.” I strapped in just as uncle Pete started the vehicle, driving out of the compound.

“I guess so too.” Jared stared from the rearview mirror; our eyes met.

The drive back home was mostly silent. My mind was filled with thoughts of Nina, Celine, and when Denise would become conscious and tell her side of the story. Feeling exhausted, I closed my eyes and worried more.

“Hey.” A soft voice sounded close yet far. “Hailey.” The voice called again, a gentle, patient tap followed.

My lips parted slightly open in an unconscious response when I felt a pair of lips mesh with mine. A small moan escaped me.

All of this was a dream. The face I saw kissing me was Jared. I wound my arms around his neck to bring him closer to me. The kiss progressed more passionately, and it became a d