Page 183 of Collided

“Told her about your sister yet?”

“Yes.”

Issac studies me. I know if I give him a second more he’ll see what I’m hiding.

“I'm getting late,” I say but make no effort to stand up.

“You like this girl, don’t you?”

What the fuck is up with everyone? Is it tattooed on my face or something?

How can anyone know what’s inside of me?

“You’re crazy,” I reply in a tense tone.

He arches an eyebrow. “Am I? Because I believe I called your bluff.”

I glare at him, and he calmly stares back with a smile that’s the same as Marie’s. There’s no doubt that they’re blood. Genetics aside, he has the habit of probing me for details just like his daughter.

“Does it matter if I like her or not?” I grit my teeth as I ask.

He nods. “Yes, it does.Yourfeelings matter, son.”

“Not enough since she’s going on a date,” I burst out.

For a moment there’s silence, then he says, “Have you told her how you feel about her?”

“No.” It’s too late now.

“You should. Maybe she feels the same about you.”

“I highly fucking doubt it.”

Issac places his elbows on his knees and leans over. “Why do you say that?”

“If you don’t know it already, I’m not the epitome of a good guy.”

“Sebastian wasn’t either, but he’s dating my daughter. Why? Because he loves her. No man will ever love my daughter like he does.”

Love. That word creeps me out. It’s like one of those spells you’ll never recite fearing it’ll come to life.

“I don’t love Hope. I’m sure of it.”

“But youlikeher.”

I look away feeling vulnerable for the first time in my life.

“You should tell her,” he suggests.

“I don’t think so. She seems to like this other guy,” I tell him in a rough voice. How fucking pathetic.

Issac laughs. “You’re jealous.”

I glare at him. “What the fuck are you talking about? I’m not fucking jealous.”

Issac gives me a look. “Tell her before it’s too late.”

Before I can fight him, the door opens, and chatter fills the hallway.

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