Page 73 of The Way the Heart Breaks: Jade’s Story

“That’s why I didn't call,” Tessa says apologetically.

“It's okay.” Which feels about right considering everything.

A few minutes later, the school comes into view, then the parking lot, then the black Trans Am.

Immediately, every thought in my head about the family crisis disappears.

Not because I'm a bad person, not because I don't care, but because Tommy Lane is leaning against the car. Unfortunately for my emotional maturity, Tommy Lane is ridiculously good-looking.

Tall. Dark hair. Blue eyes. A smile that should come with a warning label. His confidence is annoying to most, but as far as I’m concerned, it makes him even hotter.

He looks up from where he's leaning against the car and smiles at me. Yep.

“Oh, my God,” I whisper.

“Behave,” Alex mutters.

“I haven't even done anything.”

“Yet.” Tessa murmurs.

The second Alex parks, I reach for the door handle and he says, “Try not to embarrass yourself.”

I gasp. “Tessa, did you hear that?”

“I did.” She states with zero emotion.

“I'm being attacked.” I mock gasp as I open the door and slide out.

“You're being warned.”

I clutch my chest dramatically. “You two are unbelievable.”

Alex laughs as we climb out of the truck. I love his laugh and yes, it makes me smile.

As we start toward the school together, Tommy pushes away from the Trans Am.

“Morning, pr —.”

“Morning,” Alex cuts him off.

Tommy looks at me; a smile immediately appears on his face, and he whispers, “Morning, pretty girl.”

Unfortunately, my ability to function disappears. “Morning.”

Beside me, Tessa snorts, “Wow. Strong start.”

I bump her shoulder, Tommy laughs, and Alex shakes his head in amusement.

As we reach the doors, Tommy steps ahead and grabs one, holding it open.

I smile as I walk through. “Thanks.”

“Anytime.”

As he lets the door swing closed behind me, his fingers brush mine, and something small presses into my palm.

I look down. A folded piece of paper. My stomach immediately flips. By the time I glance up, he's already walking backward down the hall. Grinning.