Chapter 57

“No!” It’s answered fast, almost cutting me off, with a tug of regret and a quiver in his voice. Dane swallows harder, his gaze drops to his feet, and he lets his leg down to kick at gravel around him. “You were the girl I liked….. like. I thought it was best if you never knew that and stayed away from me. I wasn't intentionally trying to hurt you. I just wanted you to stay away. Make it easier not to like you anymore. Because things are messy and you and I …. You know how it is.”

Hearing him say it and admit it leaves me conflicted. My heart soaring with some stupid light hope and joy but, at the same time, a crushing organ grinding pain because I know it doesn’t mean anything. He doesn’t want to be with me.

“Then why didn’t you? You would push and tell me to go but always appear by my side again just as fast. You’ve confused me for years by always being around me, watching over me. Never leaving me alone.” My voice wobbles as a huge lump lifts in my throat, and I feel stupi