Chapter 53

• Lucy bit her lip, her mind swirling with conflicting thoughts. " I know, " she whispered. " But it’s just… complicated. I don’t want to lose him as a friend. He’s been there for me, for Dylan. I don’t want to push him away. "
• Rachel reached out and took Lucy’s hand, squeezing it gently. " I get it, Lucy. But leading him on—no matter how unintentionally—will only make things worse in the long run. You need to be clear with him, so he knows where he stands. And so do you. "
• Lucy nodded slowly, knowing her friend was right. Adrian had been nothing but kind and patient, never pushing her for more than she was willing to give. But she could see the hope in his eyes every time he looked at her, and it tore her apart to think of hurting him.