Chapter 84

Dane doesn't open it far and slides in, turning side on and pushing me further inside before shutting it. I’m suddenly overcome with awkwardness, staring down at my fumbling intertwined fingers as he turns to me and hauls me his way with a hand on my hip. I’m drawn in and turned as Dane flattens me to the side wall and steps in, caging me before cupping my right cheek and pulling my eyes to meet his. Nose to nose. In this tiny, cramped space, he seems to assess what must be blotchy, swollen skin around my eyes and nose.

I probably cannot deny crying.

“Talk to me.” He says it gently, with no hint of anger or accusation, and I begin to tremble, knowing now when faced like this I just caused a huge scene over something insignificant. Dane’s going to be mad, realize I am a child with zero dating experience, and break up with me on the spot. Yet I have no other explanation for my obvious distress.

I didn't ask him to come in here, and had he let me be, I would have calmed