Tangled Love

“Hey! What's wrong?" Jake asks me, his expression confused. I mutter a brief explanation and turn towards Ivory in a hurry.

"Thank you both for letting me stay here.” I smile at her.

"You're welcome, don't be a stranger." Ivory smiles, holding out her arms as she signals for a hug. I return her smile, leaning in and embracing her. I can't thank her and Jake enough for being so kind to me. I make my way towards the door, glancing down and sighing at my clothes. When I push down the handle to leave, Jake's hand slams the door shut again, stopping me from leaving.

"Where are you going?" He questions me, frowning deeply.

"Home. I really have to leave, like now." I reply desperately, trying to open the door again. Jake shakes his head at me, his jaw tense with frustration.

"No, you can’t."

"Jake, please. I need to go!" I tell him firmly, feeling the panic inside

his voice. I feel the panic increase inside my chest and images of Trevor growing increasingly

make him see sense. Hurt flashes through his

"Please understand, I need to get home." I plead with him, pulling the front door open. I silently wish Jake doesn't hate me for it. I walk out the front door, the fear inside of me

Trish. I pull my phone out of my pocket and glance at the screen. One message

Happy Birthday Bestie! I'll see you in

a mental note to reply to her later. My gaze lands on Jake who's leaning against the doorway, watching me like a hawk.

from behind and his warm hand slip in mine. The smooth feeling of paper falls into my palm and I feel him close

I look at him. I don't have time to question his action so I wrap my hand around it tighter, not wanting to lose it. Before I can leave Jake leans close to me, bending down slightly. I feel his lips press against my cheek tenderly and I freeze, stunned to the spot. The skin sparks up with electricity from his touch and his lips linger before he pulls away. I inhale sharply, my

"Happy birthday, Muffin."