Page 64 of Guarded By Death

She still had two more weeks; I wonder why she came home so early. "What happened?"

He sighs then says, "She told me she was in love with me."

I can't help the laugh that escapes my lips, "Okay, Zack, sure." I would know, she's my best friend.

His straight face tells me he's not playing around. "So, what did you tell her?" I ask.

"I love someone else," he tells me, my stomach sinks. He doesn't remember the last time we were at the park. Pierce wiped his memory, he only thinks Kayla, him, and I had a normal night without his announcement that he loves me.

I feel Pierce put an arm around me protectively and I hope Zack didn't notice the ruffle of my clothing. His eyes seem trained on mine as I open and close my mouth trying to find the right words.

"Listen," I bring my hand to his shoulder, "Zack, I love Pierce-"

He cuts me off, a smile tilting on his face. "I know that Scar, I'm not in love with you." He pauses, worrying his words were too harsh. "I mean I love you, but you're my best friend and yes, for a long time I thought what I felt for you was like love love but I think I was confused. I'm happy for you, and for Pierce." His tone and words are so sincere, I let out a deep breath. I feel Pierce relax against me. I never wanted to lose Zack as a friend.

But if it's not me, "Who?"

His smile lights up the night. "Kayla."

I squeal, upset for Liv but happy for Zack. "How did that happen?"

"We had so much fun that night, I got her number and we've been hanging out so much... I really do love her, Scarlett,” he beams.

I catch up with him, excited for his newfound love but sad for Liv. I didn't know she liked him, she never said anything.

I frown thinking of her, "Did she seem mad?" I ask, wishing she would have told me.

He shakes his head, "She was upset, she said she understood. But I don't want to lose her as a friend.”

"Zack. You won't," I assure him.

Pierce walks away, invisible still, as we catch up, he materializes from the parking lot and heads our way. I see Zack stiffen a little until Pierce reaches his hand out for a shake.

I knew if they would just have a conversation my two favorite guys would get along. We stay for a few more minutes before heading home.

Laying back in my bed, my head laid comfortably on Pierce's chest. I think about texting Liv. I know I'm not supposed to know she's home but how can I sleep comfortably knowing my best friend is upset? Like the angels answered a prayer, my phone chimes.

‘Hey Scar, can you come over?’Liv texts me, I let out a deep breath.

‘Of course! What's wrong?’I ask, even though I know.

‘Long story.’she adds and I sigh, I feel so bad for her.

"Who's that?" Pierce peeks over my shoulder.

"It's Liv, she wants me to come over. Should I tell her I know about Zack?" I frown. I know I shouldn't go there because I want her to stay safe, but nothing has happened in months. I've missed my best friend so much and she needs me right now.

"I need to go over there, have a girl's night and make her feel better," I plead with him.

"Now isn't a good time," he says as he twirls a strand of my hair.

"Please, Pierce, I haven't seen her in forever!" I pout as I climb on his lap, looking at him with wide eyes. "Plus, we just saw Zack and everything was fine," I add.

"I know but..." he starts but when I bat my lashes, he caves.

"Fine." He sighs as he wraps my arm around his waist.

I squeal. "It's just one night, plus you can be right outside the entire time. I would tell you to just stay the night with us, but I don't want to make her feel awkward around another couple." I reassure him as I kiss his cheek and hop off his lap to pack a bag.

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