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."

tell him firmly, feeling the panic inside me increase.

argues back, anger lining his voice. I feel the panic increase inside my chest and images of Trevor growing increasingly angrier by my lack

see sense. Hurt flashes through his eyes and he lets go of the door

open. I silently wish Jake doesn't hate me for it. I walk

Trish. I pull my

I'll see you in college soon! Love you

making a mental note to reply to her later. My gaze lands on Jake

secret," I plead with him before turning around and hurrying down the driveway. I hear Jake follow me from behind and his warm hand slip in mine. The smooth feeling of paper falls into my palm and I feel him close my fingers around it.

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

birthday, Muffin."