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“I never lied to you.” His jaw clenches, his hands balling into fists at his sides.

“Omission is still a lie, Sebastian. You know how much my family means to me. You knew how much I was struggling with my memories. And yet you kept this from me.”

“I was trying to protect you.”

“Why does everyone feel the need to protect me? Why not believe in me that I can handle it? Make my own decisions. You all take that away from me.”

Sebastian’s shoulders slump, defeat settling over him. “Tell me how to fix this.”

“I don’t know if you can. Please go.”

“I won’t leave you like this.”

I stare at the wall, refusing to meet his gaze. “Go. I can’t…”

“Lil—”

“Go,” I choke out. I can’t look at his face, can’t bear the ache in his voice. “Please, leave me alone.”

I hear steps and the door opening. “I meant what I said. My feelings for you are real. And when you’re ready to listen, I’ll be here.”

Please, I need you to leave. I need you to never come back. To never touch me again.

“Did Gemma know?” I ask, my voice small and vulnerable.

“No. She didn’t know either.”

Chapter 31

Lilian

I stare at the new phone Jason brought me, the screen glaring accusingly back at me. Days of blissful silence, holed up in my room, ignoring the world... all about to end with a simple swipe of my finger.

I take a few deep breaths and turn it on. Immediately, the phone vibrates angrily, messages flooding in like a tidal wave of unwanted reality.

Gemma: Hey Lil, everything ok? We stopped by, but Jason said you’re sick. Let me know if you need anything!

Mary: Girl, where you at? We miss you! *kissing-emoji*

How do I even begin to respond? I scroll through the messages. I’ve been a shitty friend. Wallowing in my own misery while they worry.

Gemma: Sebastian told me.

Gemma: How are you?

Gemma: Can we talk?

Gemma: I’m sorry.

She didn’t know either.

Another message catches my eye.

Sebastian: Good night, princess.

Sebastian: I hope you’re eating well. I went by the library in hopes of seeing you there. Are you okay?

Sebastian: I’m sorry.

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