Page 34 of Luci’s Lullaby

He steps back, blinking as if the entire thing is playing out in his mind. “No.” He shakes his head.

“I’m sorry. I should’ve told you last night, but things kinda snowballed.” I shrug.

His face twists. “You lied to me?”

“She didn’t lie, Alden.” Reese tries to back me up.

“I was wrong. You were honest with me, and I should have been with you.”

He rubs the back of his neck. “Why would you lie to me?”

“Seriously? You’re Alden Beck, that’s why.” He shakes his head. “You don’t even remember me, Alden. Do you have any idea have how many times I’ve been in the same room with you only for you to ignore me?”

“I would never intentionally ignore you. No way, Ra-Charlee.” His brows draw together.

“Maybe. Maybe not.” I hesitate. “I’m sorry I lied to you.” I turn, hurrying out the door before anything else can be said.

I click my car alarm and jump in, turning the key before I have my seatbelt on. Backing out, I stop and put the car in drive. Alden stands at his door, confusion written all over him.

We stare at one another, and my heart races until he spins and slams the door. I hit the gas and drive away.