Page 58 of Too Far

I can’t stand the thought of seeing the expression on her face as I walk away from her.

Seven more days. I just have to get us through them.

Almost thereis the mantra playing on repeat in my mind as I stride into the kitchen.

People call out to me.

One of the camera people—Tonya, I think her name is—rushes forward to focus the shot.

I offer her a terse smile, never looking directly into the camera, per the instructions Misty has drilled into me over the years.

Smile more. Look natural.

Hold your head high, but not too high. Don’t clench your jaw.

I crack my neck to alleviate the tension.

Seven more days.

Everything will be different in seven more days.

Chapter 24

Josephine

IgiveCorbinafist bump and wave at the other security guard stationed at the base of the stairs. With what could almost be considered a smile, Corbin lifts the rope hooked through one side of the stanchion, allowing me to pass.

A sense of ease settles around me when the metal lobster claw clinksback in place.

Halfway up, I pull out my phone and check the time. It’s not even nine, and yet a yawn escapes me.

Pausing where I am, I check in with the group text and tap out a message.

Josephine:I’m heading to bed. Great game tonight, guys.

I quickly scroll through my pictures as I climb the last few stairs and send a few selfies of the twins and me celebrating after they won.

Kendrick replies instantly.

K:They adore you

That simple response makes my heart float in my chest.

Josephine:Good. The feeling’s mutual. In fact, I’m pretty fond of all the Taylor siblings

K:Yeah you are

Kylian:Enough. This exchange is an unnecessary use of the group chat.

My smile transforms into a snort.

K:Don’t be jealous, Daddy Genius. You know I got love for you too

Nicky:DADDY Genius??

Nicky:WTF?

K:See? If we weren’t using the group text, the others wouldn’t know about your promotion and new nickname