Page 111 of Close

But what choice do I have? If I defy him, he’ll make our lives a living hell. He’ll cut me off, ruin any chance I have at a future. And he’ll go after Lil, too, to spite me.

The thought of her getting hurt because of me makes my stomach twist. I can’t let that happen. I won’t.

It’s not fair. None of this is fucking fair.

There has to be another way. One way to make him see reason is to convince him that Lil isn’t a threat.

“Sebastian, I will not ask again.” His eyes narrow.

“I can’t do that,” I say.

A flash of rage crosses his face before he masters his expression again. “You will, and you will also end that friendship between your sister and her.”

“I won’t.”

After a long moment, he sighs, tension draining from his shoulders. “Test her if you’re sosure.”

“What?”

“Test her. I’ll give you some information about our business. Something the Edmunds could use against us. If something happens, you have your answer, and I have my peace.”

“She won’t betray me. Our relationship has nothing to do with this. With you.”

He scoffs. “You’re a fool if you believe that. As long as Marc is involved, it will always have something to do with you. He won’t forget and certainly won’t forgive.”

“I…”

“Not so sure of yourself now, son?”

Chapter 29

Lilian

I collapse onto my bed.

The night I spent with Sebastian was way better than I could have ever imagined.

It was electric, passionate, everything in between. I giggle burying my face in the pillow. The ghost of his touch is still on my skin.

When will he be back? Is he already on his way?

I can’t wait to see him again tonight. Just the thought of being in his arms, kissing him, and… I’ve never craved or missed someone like this before.

He was tense this morning at breakfast.

Wait. I almost forgot that he wanted to talk to me when we were back. The question is about what? I don’t think he’s gonna break up with me. It is very unlikely after we had… sex.

Maybe about how we’re telling Gem?

My first real boyfriend.

I grab my phone and open up the chat with him, frowning. No new messages.

Lil: When will you be here? I miss you.

Strange. The message doesn’t go out. I stand up, holding my phone up in the air, but nothing happens. I open the girls’ chat with Gemma and Mary.

Lil: Movie night in a few days still stands?

---