MarissaThe underwater lamp rippled across the pool’s surface as I walked past. Justin had just dropped me off outside the lounge, and I had begged him not to come in with me. I couldn’t handle more drama; my life already had enough of it.The poolside was full of people. Some swam laps, some sat at the edge, and others drifted without purpose. A couple stood chest-deep in the water, talking quietly, while another person was shouting across the pool at someone who ignored him.Hector sat at the edge of the pool with his legs in the water, scrolling through his phone. The glow lit up his wet face. When he looked up and noticed me, he smiled, though I could tell he was uneasy. I sat beside him, and he moved a can of soda aside to make space. Our legs hung in the water, our toes brushing the surface.“I told you,” I said quietly, “you don’t need to babysit me anymore. Your best friend’s back. Go play hero with him.”He gave a short laugh. “Alan doesn’t control me. And believe it or not,
Last Updated : 2025-08-29 Read more