LOVE PAINTED IN LIES

came too

t knew exactly how afraid she was trying not to be. When sunlight finally crept through the curtains

st room. Safe. But

was already awake, leaning against the counter with a mug in h

ning he s

rni

ilence wasn't awkward. It was heavy, filled

drian finally said. Everyt

like a stra

tened. Students gathered at the gate laughing, talking, living their ordinary

Stay around people today. Don't go anywhere alone.

You're coming

ted. I'll

sn't rea

k more, a familiar v

il

r literature class, quiet but kind, the type who noticed whe

. I heard you missed

ile back. Yeah.

hort distance, his jaw tighte

de Ethan said. The

gaze linger on her. Protective. Worried.

y moved

ipped past her without meaning. She felt eyes on her consta

e large tree near the sports field. Laughter su

t Mara said. You

ed then nodde

ice. If you ever need someone to wal

d softly.

roup of seniors. He wasn't part of the

r eye

tween them felt charged with things unsaid. Mila's heart beat faster, not wit

oked aw

emptied as the sun dipped lower. Mila packed her bag s

ck over his shoulder. W

nswer, Adrian appea

g her he s

then nodded. See

down the hallway. T

tell me he s

you

hearsal

rt my schedule to you she re

ped walk

to face him.

ry because I care. Not bec

her harder th

ect me all the time she s

but nodded. I

n soft orange and pink. For a moment, it almost felt

the steps n

ever wish we could go back to b

er immediately. The

m. His expression

e enough to tell me the

e admitted. Afraid you'

lowed. I

ly. I know. And

again, but this time it w

is fingers brushing hers. He paus

did

like they remembered each other. M

te you she

than I deserv

warmth passing between them, the

dow crossed

s head s

llowed h

he fence, someone stood watchin

watc

ightened aroun

hat she w

ession hardene

ok a picture, then turned and

ath shook.

kly pulling her up

rd the car, Mila glan

rson had stood was a folded piec

pped and pi

olded i

leaned

e written neatly

ol memorie

omach d

wasn't

just b