Tangled Love

I have to prepare myself for that because right now, my emotional state is on the line. How can I tell him how much I care about him anymore than I already have? I'm not prepared to stand by and allow him to use me and throw me away once he's done with me. If Tobias' words are true, I need to distance myself away from Jake and be nothing but friends.

I don't plan on avoiding Jake but somehow I'm aware of every step he takes and the small movements of his head as he turns to look at me. I can't bring myself to maintain eye contact with him because I'm afraid I'll break down in frustrated tears. Why do boys have to be so damn complicated?

I focus my energy on Ivory because right now, I need a friend.

"I can't wait to go back to college and see Trish. I'm seriously missing her chatting my ear off." I tell Ivory, glancing at my watch. There's only two weeks to go before we're back in school and my best friend comes home from being on holiday. I feel like I've lost my right arm without Trisha Lockwood in my life. Ivory nods, agreeing with me.

"Trish definitely needs to throw some fun in our direction. I feel like a slob binge watching Netflix all day." She chuckles, taking a bite from her toast. I giggle with her, lifting my mug and taking a sip of my coffee. Jake enters the kitchen, his shoulders physically tense and his jaw locked with tension. I avert my gaze, studying the fascinating checkered print on the dining table inside.

Ivory notices the hostility and awkward tension hang in the air and she raises an eyebrow —

"Trouble in paradise?" She asks us both. Jake turns to glare at her. "Shut up Ivory."

is directed at me. I simply shrug my shoulders, a burning sensation rising to my cheeks. Ivory looks up at Jake and waits for him to respond but he never does. The air grows increasingly thick with tension and I feel myself beginning to

what the issue is between Jake and

his problem?" I blurted out, annoyed at the mention of her brother. Ivory stood up, walking over

brothers. Two years ago, Tobias did something that hurt Jake. He still hasn't

Tobias do?" I ask, intrigued to know. Ivory gives me a small

good person Emily, he doesn't trust many people. What Tobias said

her keys, leaving me alone. I sit in silence for a few moments, inhaling and exhaling deeply.

pulling me away from my distressed thoughts. I looked up to see a women dressed smartly in a deep plum suit that contrasted perfectly against her skin. Her hair

both had a gorgeous smile. I held my

Mrs Melvin," I said politely, pushing down the nerves. She smiled at me before walking

call me Mrs Melvin, that title disappeared a long time ago

hint of maturity, she oozed sophistication. I nodded at her words before taking a seat, placing my hands

for letting me stay here, Miss..."

me Michelle darling, and don't look so worried. I won't bite your head off."