In a world of lies, betrayal and too many secrets, Lydia must navigate her way through without revealing her undercover identity. But what happens when she gets in too deep and her life is put on the line?
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Chapter Sixteen
My body deflates against the plush leather cushioning of the sleek black chair. Traveling anywhere in a limo seems excessive, really. A taxi would have sufficed or anything that doesn't involve Tyson's radical driving. I've been scared enough today.
"Are you okay, Alessia?" I almost leap out the window from fright. I peer further down the almost pitch black limo to see Luke pressed against the chair casually. The passing street light flickers against his facial features. I'm creeped out by the fact he's here but I suppose the actual Alessia would notice the difference between cars. The fact the driver asked me where we're going is oddly surprising. Does he know where we're going? Cause I don't.
"Luke?"
"I grabbed my car when Kade's mother explained you were feeling off," he explains. "I also thought it would be the perfect time for us to escape Kade. I hate how he watches you. When did he start caring about what you want?"
"Uhh." I bite my lip. "Appearances are deceptive."
"They sure are," he agrees.
Instead of worrying about this, I relax and gaze out the window. Unfortunately, Kade's mother comes to mind. Her flustered and out of breath appearance leaves me unsure. Who is that out of breath at a function like that? In fact, I don't want to know. It's not my problem and I shouldn't be reading into it.
"I'm sorry for the trouble," I say. "Kade could have driven me home." Hopefully, Luke has some sense to drop me home without coming in. I'm sure he can't be that daring, even with alcohol flowing through his system.
"I heard he was busy in the storage cupboard with another woman," says Luke. "You deserve better."
"Hm," I mumble.
"I'm happy he's distracted," Luke notes.
I have to hold the laughter inside. Luke probably thinks this means he can come into Kade's apartment with me. I'd hate to see his reaction if Luke ever found out I was the woman. People are deceptive, even the best of us.
"Luke, I don't think this is a good idea," I explain. "Kade could be on his way home and I'd hate for something to happen." The character within me comes to play, however, I'd be amused to see Kade in a fight. I know it's horrible to like the idea, though.
"No, I doubt that," says Luke. "His mother encouraged me to reach out to you. I'm glad I agreed." He sighs happily.
"She did?" I frown.
"How much have you had to drink?" He chuckles.
Luke moves from his spot and over to me. He wraps his arm around my shoulder and brings me to rest my head on his shoulder.
"I'll take care of you, don't you worry." And as he says those words, my stomach knots with nerves. I haven't drunk enough wine to feel comfortable.
