No Turning Back Now, Liam

a stark contrast to Liam's complete absence. He didn't visit again. He sent a few perfunctory texts asking how I was, which I ignored. I spent t

was with him, clinging to his arm, her own wrist wrapped in a light

Liam announced, as if he w

said flatly, continuing to pack m

et. She stepped forward, holding a small container. "I brought you

ous to the tension, nudged me. "Take it,

d arm bumping against the metal bed frame. A sharp, searing pain shot through me, and I cr

" Liam asked, his voice laced wi

Olivia let out a small ga

"Are you burned? Let me see." He took her hand, examining it close

newed agony. He didn't ask if I was okay. He didn't help me up. He didn't even look at

h wide eyes. My dad rushed to my side, helping me sit on the

ked, his voice tight with anger

and mushroom soup," O

t at Liam. "You know Chloe is allergic to mushrooms. A

ad known about my allergy. He had been there the one time I had an anaphylactic reaction at a childhood birthday party. He had held

t know," Oliv

ce quiet but cutting. I looked

than any physical injury. It was proof o

I just..." he began

ming out. "You never ask. You just assume. You assumed our relationship was nothing. You assumed I'd

. Liam looked genuinely stunned, as i

ts radiating a cold fury. As we were about to

before you go. They feel t

of courtesy to a family I had once loved

r eyes full of genuine remorse. "Chloe, I am so,

as not been himself. This thing

family dinners. "It's okay," I said, the lie tasting like ash. "I just came

ing? To Europe?" Mrs. Davis repeated, her h

, sticking to the story we had prepared. "And a chance for me

lked in, a happy, oblivious smile on his face

ing. "Olivia said yes!" He opened the box to r

tered, confusion clouding his features. He had no idea he had just walked into the final scene