Page 86 of The Deception You Weave

"He was nice?" she asks as if it's the most absurd thing she's ever heard.

"He wanted to walk me to class."

"Whoa, was he going to hold your books too?"

I can't help laughing with her, and after the weekend I've had, it feels so freaking good.

The sun is shining, the early morning warmth hits my skin and the scent of late summer fills my nose. Despite everything. I'm feeling good. No matter how painful it's been going back there, knowing that I'm no longer keeping a secret from Kane is like a massive weight lifted. Add to that Ella knowing the truth as well, and each step I take just feels a little easier.

Although, that all comes crashing down a little when we approach the building and I find only one Dunn waiting for me.

The events of last night come rushing back and the hurt and anger on Luca's face.

I never meant to hurt him, but I also wasn't going to lie to him either.

"‘Morning," he says with a forced smile.

"Where's the other bodyguard this morning?" Ella asks innocently.

"Er…" Leon hesitates, his eyes finding mine.

"I told them both the truth about where I was Saturday night. Luca didn't take it very well," I say to Ella. "How is he?" I ask, turning to Leon.

"He's… you remember how he used to get during the high school season?"

"Yeah," I whisper, remembering all too well the pressure he put on himself, let alone the pressure he felt from their father.

"Well, being in college, the stakes are higher, and the pressure is worse."

"Jesus. Maybe I shouldn't have…"

"No, Letty. You did the right thing. He'd hate it even more if you were lying to him."

"Ugh, I know. I just…"

"You can't protect him, Let. Just give him the time he needs, he'll come around."

"Once the season is over?" I ask dryly.

"Nah, he'll get over it before then."

At that, something over my shoulder catches his eye. I don't need to look to know it's the man in question. I can read it on Leon's face.

The tension becomes heavy as he steps up to us.

"We're going to be late," he says coldly, his eyes never meeting mine.

Before any of us get a chance to say anything, he spins on his heels and marches into the building.

"So I guess we're going in then," Ella mutters, taking off after him.

"Maybe you should talk to him, offer to cheer him up," Leon says lightly to Ella before she’s too far away.

"Oh I'd love to, but I don't think I'm the one he wants."

My heart drops into my stomach at her words and my chest aches.

I don't want to hurt him.