𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐄 || 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐊𝐍𝐃 𝐗 𝐒𝐙𝐀

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟑

Raegan's POV

I can't believe I let Abel kiss me. I'm so ashamed. I've had a celebrity crush on him for years, but I never imagined this. He's an incredible kisser, but that doesn't excuse his behavior.

Abel crossed a serious line with Lamar. Lamar always spoke so highly of their friendship, and I felt a connection to Abel through those stories.

Yet, when we finally met, he was rude and condescending, treating me like shit.

I was hurt that Lamar never mentioned me to Abel, especially considering our years-long friendship. I naively assumed he had introduced me to his circle. If I had known I'd be treated so poorly, I would have avoided his crew altogether.

Abel's enigmatic nature is both fascinating and unsettling. His vacant gaze hints at a depth of thought that remains perpetually concealed.

The fast-paced lifestyle I was thrust into was a stark contrast to my usual routine. I couldn't fathom why Lamar would expose me to his xo crew, knowing the potential risks involved.

Little did I know the extent of the turmoil that lay ahead.

Years ago, during visits to my family in Toronto, I'd occasionally encounter Abel. This was before my friendship with Lamar blossomed in Los Angeles.

Abel would often perform at clubs to promote his music, but our paths never crossed. That was before his meteoric rise to fame.

I haven't been to Toronto in years, since my family relocated to the US.

I've always admired Abel's music; his voice is truly angelic. In person, he's even more striking, he was handsome.

Beneath his innocent facade lies a complex individual.

He was mysterious...

I'm familiar with the type of women they gravitate towards independent spirits who defy societal norms, seeking adventure and pleasure. However, such a lifestyle can be perilous, particularly when substance abuse takes hold.

While I didn't judge, it simply wasn't the path I chose.

I often feel too ordinary, too mundane to engage in the wild lifestyle of the XO crew. It's always fascinated me how Lamar managed to juggle college and the streets. He seemed to lead a double life, and Abel was his escape from Toronto. Their rapid rise to fame and fortune was exhilarating, if a bit overwhelming.

I'm not the type to chase clout or party with a bunch of guys. I've always been more of a lone wolf. I still can't quite fathom why Lamar wanted to befriend me, but I'm eternally grateful for his trust and loyalty. He was the first to reach out when I was feeling lost and scared after high school. His kindness helped me gain confidence and make genuine connections.

I've always been shy and anxious, an introvert who can be surprisingly outspoken when necessary. Confronting Abel was one of those moments. Despite his status as a well-known musician, I wasn't intimidated. Well, maybe a little, but I held my ground.

I'm really upset about what happened with Abel. It was completely inappropriate, especially considering Lamar's feelings.

Abel blaming me was ridiculous.

Lamar had a fight with Cash, and then Abel, out of the blue, kisses me like a maniac. I enjoyed it but I wouldn't tell him that.

It's clear that Lamar knows I won't want to come back to Canada after this. I thought it would be fun to meet his friends, but now I'm regretting that decision.

The whole xo crew seems to have some serious issues to work out.

I needed to get away, so I've been wandering around the city. I'm checking into a hotel and booking a flight back to California tomorrow morning.

Lamar may be disappointed, but I just don't feel the same way about him. We almost got physical once when I was vulnerable and drunk, but I realized our friendship was more important. I don't want to lead him on or hurt him.

He begged me to meet his friends, and I thought it was a good idea, but now everything's ruined. It's unfair that I'm being blamed for Abel's actions. I'm the victim here. While I did enjoy the kiss, I think Lamar might be a little jealous.

I have an issue with guys just randomly kissing me. It was just weird that Abel would do something like that considering that Lamar would be pissed about it.

But it's unfair for Lamar to be angry at me too. I was the victim here. I really think Abel might be jealous of Lamar and I's friendship. It looked like he was taken aback with me being at the studio.

I'm regretting that decision of coming here. I don't like feeling as if I'm a bother to anyone.

The whole xo crew seems to have their own issues to sort out; so I just needed to get away, so I've been wandering the city.

I'm booking a hotel room and an early flight back to California tomorrow. Lamar will be disappointed, but I can't stay here.

While he does have feelings for me, I don't reciprocate them and that bothers him sometimes. I value our friendship too much to jeopardize it.

I suddenly found myself derailed from my thoughts, and a nearby bench was available for me to sit. Relief washed over me as my aching feet found respite. I must have walked a good mile from the studio.

Lamar had chased after me, but I was already out of sight by the time he left the studio.

The city was bustling with activity, its clean streets and attractive architecture offering a welcome distraction.

A shiver ran through me, and I pulled my gloves on for warmth. I'd brought this on myself. I should have let Lamar take me back to the hotel, but my embarrassment had gotten the better of me.

I dialed Lamar's number, leaving a voicemail message.

"Damn it, Lamar, where are you?" I thought.