The Eighth Breakup ✓

Chapter 19 Someone's Following Us!

Chapter 19: Someone's Following Us!

When I woke up the following morning, my room's window was wide open and Nolan was gone.

The photos still lied next to my pillow. I picked them up as soon as I got off the bed and hid them in my backpack. No one except me could touch it, so a safe location.

Nolan left another dilemma for me to handle. Today was Valentine's Day, and his life was in danger. What was he trying to achieve by giving me the photos? Did he want to test me?

I was a woman of my word, okay?

If I said I was helping him, I was. (Just help. No break ups.)

Once at school, I decided I wasn't going to act any different than I did yesterday. But the entire day was fully packed with work, giving me no opportunity to talk to him. As soon as the dismissal bell rang, I rushed to the parking lot and waited by Nolan's car.

He took his time coming from whichever class he had. When he saw me, he sighed and rubbed his forehead. I hadn't even uttered a single word yet.

"I gave you the photos. What more can I do?"

"It's Valentine's Day," I said.

"So?"

"What kind of a boyfriend are you?" I leaned against the side of his car. "You're not gonna take me out somewhere?" He cocked an eyebrow. Well, this wasn't awkward at all. "I don't mind paying if that's the issue--"

He stepped forward, taking me by surprise. I immediately stepped to the side.

"Yeah some girlfriend," he mocked. It wasn't my fault I liked my personal space. But since I was supposed to "confess" today, I needed more courage. Prepping myself internally, I stepped closer to him.

"Yes, some girlfriend," I said, maintaining eye contact.

Some people waiting for their buses eyed us weirdly. Didn't they have better things to do?

Nolan's light green eyes didn't leave mine as he held a solemn expression. It felt weird. I wanted to step away already. Ten seconds was enough time! He was sharing the same air as me!

"What are you up to, Helen?" he asked, his eyes scrutinized. "Some prank or something? I've had enough trouble with women already." He put his hand on his car sideways.

What was I supposed to say?

"I'll back off, Nolan, if that's what you want," I said, taking the opportunity to step back. I could finally breathe properly. With a downcast expression, I added, "I just wanted to hang out. It's fine if you--"

"I don't know how safe it'd be to go out today," he said and ran a hand through his dark hair.

"We can stay in then," I shrugged. "The safest place would be the most crowded one."

He gave a baffled look.

I forced him to get into the car and drive us to the nearest mall. I called home telling that Nolan and I were spending a few hours together for Valentine's Day. Mom was fine with it except for the "bring him over for dinner tonight." Yeah right. Only if he said yes to my confession.

The mall was crowded with couples holding hands, kissing occasionally, taking selfies etc. To fit in, I grabbed Nolan's hand as we strolled through.

"Stop holding my hand, weirdo," he said, endeavoring to break free of the grip.

I let go harshly and a gave disappointed glare. "You're so un-romantic. No wonder you went through so many break ups."

"We're not in an actual relationship, Hel-en."