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“Fuck. Is it because of Serena? Please, you must believe me that there is nothing between her and me.”
“You’re playing me again, aren’t you?”
He sighs. “I’m not. What can I do so you believe me?”
“Nothing.”
His thumb brushes over my cheekbone. “I know I fucked up. But I’m trying here, Lil. I’m really fucking trying.”
I analyze his face, seeking out any subtle signs of deception. But all I see is raw honesty, a vulnerability he rarely shows.
“I want to believe you,” I say. “But I can’t.”
“I won’t lose you again.”
“Youalready did.”
His hands fall away, and I flee, dodging staff, Gemma, Mary, and guests alike until I’m at the elevator, hammering the button.
Hide.
All the feelings come rushing in, as powerful as ever.
What have I done?
Hide.
A hand stops my movement, and I whirl around.
“Sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.” Serena looks at me, a gentle warmth in her eyes. “You’re Lil, right?”
I stare at her, not being able to say a single word.
“Here.” She hands me a napkin.
I take it, dabbing my eyes. “Thanks.”
“Men can be such idiots, can’t they?” She chuckles.
“You have no idea.”
“Look, I know we don’t know each other, but…” She hesitates, as if choosing her words carefully. “Sebastian cares about you. A lot.”
I scoff. “He doesn’t.”
“He’s… complicated.”
“Understatement.”
“All I’m saying is, don’t write him off yet. He might surprise you.”
I search her face. What’s her angle? Why is she defending him? Aren’t they together?
“And to be sure, because I don’t want to get between you two. Ha. He’d kill me if he knew I was talking to you.” She shakes her head. “Sebastian and I… it’s not what you think.”
“You kissed.”
“Yes, that was me.” She rubs her neck. “Let’s say I wanted to make someone jealous, and I knew what he was trying to do. So, I thought I would do us both a favor. I’m sorry. He really didn’t want to.”