It's been five years since the sudden disappearance of Cora Cadigan's mother. Five years since the case was closed before it even began.
In the final summer before the end of high school, Cora knows it's her last opportunity to find the answers she...
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"You're asking him tonight?"
New River is known for its party lifestyle during the summer. Our population is small, but when the weather starts getting warmer, all the holiday-makers arrive.
The water laps at my feet whilst Tea speaks to me. I've abandoned my shoes somewhere up the bank and probably won't be able to find them again later.
"Yep. Tonight," I say, sternly.
"I like your commitment. Are you sure about this, though?" Teagan bites nervously on her lip.
"I don't have a choice," I defend. "Rhys is my last option."
"I'm on your side here, CeCe. I just want you to be sure."
"I am," I promise, nodding.
The wind picks up, blowing my hair across my face. The waves crash to the shore, the sound steadying my beating heart.
"Ryan is still—"
"Screw Ryan," I snap. I wrap my arms around my midsection, looking away from Teagan.
"You still love him," Tea softens, leaning her head against my shoulder.
"Not like that, I don't. I love him as my best friend, but I also hate him with a passion."
"You don't have to deny it with me," Teagan whispers. "I know how hurt you were the other night at the cafe. I know you wish he would have agreed with your plan."
"Of course I was hurt!" I sigh. "But I should have known his ego would get in the way."
"He's stubborn, but so are you," Teagan chides. "That's why you were perfect for each other."
"No, we weren't. He's perfect for himself."
"I—"
"Enough about Ry," I sigh. "He's still being all grumpy and I don't want to talk to him right now. Tonight, it's all about operation Rhys Laderman."
