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.

can’t."

need to go!" I tell him firmly, feeling the panic inside me increase.

back there. Let me look after you." Jake argues back, anger lining his voice. I feel the

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

him, pulling the front door open. I silently wish Jake doesn't hate me

beside Trish. I pull my phone out of my pocket and glance at the

Bestie! I'll see you in college soon! Love you xoxo

note to reply to her later. My gaze lands on Jake who's leaning

follow me from behind and his warm hand slip in mine. The smooth feeling of paper falls into my palm

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 fingers

"Happy birthday,