Chapter 26 - Let me explain

Lukas POV

I pulled Max inside the house and took one last look outside before closing the door.

I didn’t think I’d see her again, but I was glad. She must have given Jace the slip again because he would never have allowed her to leave his house alone… not after what had happened.

I led her inside my kitchen and sat her on a bench near the dining table. I lived alone, so I had little other than the basics.

I cursed as I filtered through the counter cabinets and couldn’t find the coffee. I was sure I had some—somewhere.

I glanced at Max. Her head was in her hands, and she was shaking it like she had a bad dream.

Screw the coffee.

I pulled out a bottle of rum and grabbed two shot glasses.

“I think we both need this,” I said while placing the glasses on the table. I poured the rum and slid Max’s glass close to her face.

She perked up, threw her head back, downed the alcohol, and quickly took the rum bottle to fill up her shot. I stayed silent, waiting for her to calm down.

I thou