Chapter 11

After Ahren's words chase me, I pivot and sprint away. "No, Alora! I wasn't thinking!"

I navigate through the inebriated teens dancing and the blaring music, making it difficult to hear my own heavy breaths. I'm overwhelmed, torn between wanting to scream or cry. Ahren has always been my friend, so his kiss feels wrong. Despite the fact that he and Azura never had anything romantic, it doesn't alleviate the guilt I now carry.

Upon opening the patio door, a rush of frigid winter air invades, chilling my lungs. There's a 40-yard stretch before the dense, dark forest looms. I lean against the wooden railing of the patio deck, attempting to stave off the buttery sensation in my head induced by the alcohol.

My wrist stings as if on fire, prompting a hiss from me. I grasp it and scratch my arm where my bracelet rests. Looking down, I notice ice forming on the railing, enough to nudge me toward the decision to head home.

Nobody there is in a state to drive, and I can't turn to Ahren. Howe