The Enemy Lives Next Door (bxb)

Twenty-Five

Part Twenty-Five

•••

Liam practically kidnaps me for this sleepover.

His sole bribe? Food. That's the only reason I'm here for this pitiful sleepover for two. Is that normal?

My stomach flutters, and my heart feels strangely full. Cliché, I know. Liam grins, tugs my hand, and leads me to his bedroom.

I stifle a laugh as he drags me, careful not to make too much noise in case his mom's home. When we step into his room, I stop in awe.

The room glows softly with a yellow light. Daisies are scattered across the bed and floor, and my favorite things are arranged beside a huge brown bear clutching the letter "L."

A smile spreads across my face, and I turn to Liam, impressed. "You did all this?"

He blushes slightly, scratching his head. "Yeah," he admits with a sheepish laugh. "I wanted this sleepover to be perfect."

In his eyes, I see nothing but sincerity and admiration. No trace of mischief or trouble.

Still grinning, I pull him close, resting my face on his shoulder. His arms wrap around my lower back, and I feel a deep sense of security.

His scent is a comforting blend of musk and mint. Liam buries his face in the crook of my neck, and the warmth of his embrace is soothing.

Contentment.

•••

A loud crash jolts me awake. I rub the sleep from my eyes, noticing the empty space beside me. My heart sinks. Did he leave? Is he regretting our make-out session? Is he having second thoughts?

Shouting drifts up from downstairs, followed by another crash. I yank the quilt off and slip out of bed, creeping to the door.

"Oh, so now this is my fault?" a male voice yells. "Where were you when I needed you the most?"

"Don't blame me for you throwing your life away!" Liam's voice cuts through, full of fury. "You had everything. What happened?"

"Don't give me that bullshit," the voice snaps. "I'm not here for a lecture from a wannabe."

Curiosity piqued, I inch down the stairs. A boy with black hair, taller and rougher than Liam, stands facing him.

Liam's voice softens but remains firm. "Bro, when did you start doing this? We used to be close."

"Close?" the boy scoffs. "You're hilarious, Liam. Get out of my way before I do something I'd enjoy."

Liam stands firm. "I'm not letting you do this to yourself," he says, locking eyes with him. "Or I'm telling Mom."

Without warning, the boy's fist connects with Liam's jaw, sending him staggering. I gasp, covering my mouth. Both boys turn to me.

The boy growls at me, then back at Liam. "Better not tell anyone, you little shit," he warns, pointing a finger.

Liam rolls his eyes. "We'll see about that."