Without You

27

After a while, we pack up the picnic and head back to the car.

This time I drive him back home.

"Why aren't you in school?" I ask. he shrugs. "I have other things I have to focus on, like my job and helping my mom out, when my dad went away it was hard for her."

I nod in understanding. "I'm sorry."

He smiles at me. "Don't be, you have to many things on your plate to be worrying about me."

"Thanks for tonight," I say, glancing at him as I parks. "It was really special."

He smiles, "I'm glad you had fun. Let's do it again soon."

"Definitely."

As he gets out, I can't help but smile as I watch him walk to the front door. It's a perfect end to an incredible evening. I pull out of the driveway, my heart light and my mind replaying every moment.

When I get home, I head straight to my room, still buzzing from the night. I can't help but smile as I change for bed, my thoughts drifting back to Adam. As I settle under the covers, I know that this is a night I'll remember for a long time.

The next morning, I wake up feeling refreshed. I get ready for school.

At school, though, the atmosphere shifts. I walk down the hallway, and my heart sinks a little when I spot Azriel leaning against the lockers, waiting for me.

"Hey, Amore," he calls, his voice casual but his expression serious.

I quicken my pace, hoping to slip past him unnoticed, but he steps in front of me. "What's up? I haven't seen you around much."

"I've been busy," I reply, trying not to sound scared.

"Busy with what? Adam?" he presses, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"Azriel, I really don't want to talk right now," I say, feeling frustrated.

"Why not? We used to tell each other everything."

"Things change," I respond sharply, trying to push past him again, but he blocks me.

"Come on, Amore, just talk to me."

I'm about to snap back when I hear a voice from behind us.

"Why don't you back off, Azriel?" It's Taylor, crossing her arms and glaring at him. "Amore doesn't owe you anything."

I blink, surprised. I don't exactly like Taylor, but I can't help but feel a rush of gratitude at her words.

"Mind your business, Taylor," Azriel snaps, but she doesn't budge.

"No, seriously. Just leave her alone," she insists, stepping closer to me. "If she doesn't want to talk, she doesn't have to."

I glance at Taylor, and for a moment, I'm taken aback by her unexpected defense. Azriel looks between us, his expression darkening, but after a moment, he huffs and pushes off the locker.

"Fine. Whatever," he mutters before walking away.

"Thanks," I say quietly to Taylor, feeling a mix of relief and confusion.

She shrugs, her frown fading. "Just looking out for you. You seem like you could use a break from him."

"Yeah, I guess," I reply, trying to shake off the awkwardness.

As we start walking toward class, I can't help but glance at Taylor, who's keeping pace beside me.

"Thanks again for backing me up with Azriel," I say, trying to sound casual.