ISABELLA She's right. I'm not her. I don't realize how tightly I've been holding my breath until it slips out of me in a slow, shaky exhale. My chest loosens just a little. Chloe studies me like she’s waiting for maybe an argument... but none comes. Instead, I wipe under my eyes and give her a weak smile. “You always have to end things with a dramatic speech, don’t you?” She shrugs smugly. “I’m a very inspiring person.” “That’s not the word I’d use.” She grins. “Get out.” I laugh quietly but I don't move. “Go,” she says, waving toward the door. “Your boyfriend is waiting." Right. Noah. I glance back at her once more. “Thank you.” She salutes lazily from the couch. “Best-friend law.” I take a breath, turn the knob, and step outside. By the time I get outside, it's dark night. Noah is leaning against his car, arms folded, head slightly bowed. When our eyes lock, his shoulders drop. “Hey,” he says softly. I walk to him. “I’m sorry,” I blurt before I even reach him.
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