Max's POV

"What in god's name is this place?" Cole asked, his voice dropping as he glanced around the secluded surroundings with a mix of curiosity and confusion. He parked his car beside mine and peered out, trying to make sense of the desolate scene.

"How about I tell you more about it later," I mumbled, my voice low and lacking its usual strength.

It felt like a storm had churned within me, leaving me disoriented and raw. My fight with Dad had shattered something deep within me. We'd never fought like this before; the only real tension had been when Lilly returned and dropped the big bomb on us.

But today—today was different. Never did he raise his voice at me like this, never did he look at me with utter disappointment.

I really had no idea how to feel about any of that.

I shook my head, not wanting to dwell on the last words we exchanged. My hand gripped the car door handle, and I stepped out, in desperate need of some oxygen. The cool night breeze brushed against my skin, sending shivers down my spine, but it did little to soothe the turmoil inside.

Cole got out of his car as well, his lost eyes flickered around, still trying to make sense of why my car was parked here out of all the places. He tucked his hands in his hoodie's pocket and paused next to me, his eyes taking notice of my messy state, "Did something happen?" He mumbled.

I nodded, the words scratching at my throat, "I kind of fought with my dad," I managed, rubbing a hand over my face in a futile attempt to clear the fog of confusion.

Cole's forehead creased in surprise. He knew well enough that Dad and I had always been close, never having had a serious argument before.

"Uh, if you don't want to go home, you can crash at my place," he offered, "You know how much my mom adores you, she's always going on about how great you are," He rolled his eyes dramatically, "Always telling me to be more like you," he added with a half-hearted smile that tried to lift my spirits.

"I'll keep that in mind," I said, my lips lifting up just enough, "But for now, I just feel like being alone," I added.

He nodded in understatement, unwilling to push me further, "Call me, okay?"

"I will," I mumbled, "Thanks again, Cole." After I left the house, I called him to pick me up. In no time, and without any questions, he was there.

He waved his hand in a never-mind-about-it manner before he got back inside his car and drove away, leaving me alone in the quiet of the night. As his taillights faded into the darkness, I slumped against my car for support, feeling the weight of everything crash down on me.

The silent night seemed to press in around me, its emptiness echoing my own sense of loss. With a deep, weary sigh, I pushed myself upright and made my way back to the bunker. It would be empty at this hour, a very good place to hide from everyone.

I entered the security code and slipped inside, the door sealing shut behind me. I was greeted by the dim, flickering lightbulbs that barely illuminated my path. I made my way to one of the couches, collapsing into it as if the weight of the world had finally pushed me down. My back sank deep into the cushions, my shoulders hunched forward in defeat.

I closed my eyes, wishing more than anything to be with Valerie right now, but we just got things sorted out today, I didn't want to pressure her from the very start.

Almost like she knew she was on my mind, the phone buzzed in my pocket. I pulled it out to see a very simple 'Hey' text message from her.

My lips twitched lightly and before I could think it through, I dialed her number. I pressed the phone to my ear and after a couple of rings, she answered, "Hey," she said, her voice the softest of melodies.

I let my eyelids fall shut again, the tightness in my chest easing just a fraction, "Hey," I whispered back, "I just wanted to hear your voice."

"I was going to call you too, but uh," I could almost see her pretty face behind my closed lids, her teeth nibbling down on her lips, ever so nervous every time she showed me a bit of affection, "I didn't know if you'd be available, so, uh—"

"I'm always available for you, Valerie," I cut in gently, trying to reassure her.

"Uhum," She mumbled lowly, "So, what are you doing?"

I looked around at my empty surroundings, "Nothing much," I said with a low sigh, "And you?"

I heard the soft click of a door from her side and imagined her walking into her room, the quiet creak of the bed as she sank down. God, I'd kill to be with her now, "I got home like an hour ago," she said, her voice tinged with weariness, making my gaze drop to my watch. My eyebrows pulled closer, worried at how she was juggling too much with these jobs, wearing herself thin. I really wanted to help, I just didn't know how.

"And guess what, my mom had made dinner tonight, I am in total shock right now," She added, her voice a mix of disbelief and frustration, "She hadn't cooked since—" Since her father passed away apparently, "And tonight I come home, and she's got dinner on the table, even left a plate for me. I don't get it...she's been acting so weird lately."

"Did she talk with you at least?" I asked.

"Not really," she said, a sigh threading through her voice, "We exchange a few words now and then, which is much more than before, but still, it's never more than a sentence at a time."

"She's still your mother, Valerie," I said gently, hoping my words were true, "She worries about you, even if she doesn't show it in the way you need. This might just be how she deals with things."

"Yeah..." she murmured, a touch of resignation in her tone. "Never mind about me. How are you?" she asked, her voice softening, "You sound...not so good."

"Can I tell you about it tomorrow?" I asked because one, I didn't want to delve into it now, and two, I really needed to see her again.

"Yeah, sure," She said.

A small smile pulled up my lips, "This means I will be able to see you tomorrow?"

"Yeah," She whispered, "We can meet up before class if you want," She suggested, "Is the back of the coffee shop okay?" She mumbled, a bit hesitant, unsure if I'd go on with her rules to hide our relationship.

"Valerie, I'd climb mountains just to see you, so yeah, the back of the coffee shop seems pretty fantastic," I said.

"Okay, it's a date then," she said, and I could hear the smile in her voice, which somehow made the tightness in my chest ease just a bit more.

"It's a date," I affirmed.

"Go get some rest now," I said softly, imagining how tired she must be. "I don't want to keep you up. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Okay," she whispered back, her voice like a fading lullaby, "Goodnight, Max."

"Goodnight, Valerie," I replied, and as her voice vanished, the emptiness of the room crept back in, much heavier than before.

Hours passed, but sleep was elusive, my mind churning with too many thoughts to find peace. It was nearing four in the morning when I finally gave in, curling up my sweatshirt into a makeshift pillow and closing my eyes. Sleep claimed me fitfully, but it was short-lived. Three hours later, the screech of the metal doors sliding open jarred me awake.

My eyelids shot open and I rushed a hand over my face as I pulled my upper body straight. My gaze fell on Jeremy as he halted by the entrance, startled as his eyes fell on me. He pushed his glasses up with his forefinger, his eyebrows pulling closer, "Max?" He said, unable to comprehend what was I doing here at this ungodly hour.

"Hey, Jeremy," I muttered lazily. He frowned, setting his laptop bag down on a nearby chair and his travel mug on the counter, "Did you...sleep here?" he asked, still piecing it together.

I ran a hand over my hair, probably getting it more messy than ever. I stood up and tried to smooth my sweatshirt but it was too crumbled up for me to wear again, "Yeah, kind of," I mumbled with a tired sigh.

My eyes fell back on his confused one and then it registered in my mind, "Jeremy, can you promise me not to tell Nikolas about this?"

He hesitated, his throat bobbing as he swallowed, "Well, I'm not really a good liar," he admitted.

"You won't be lying if you just wouldn't say a thing," I added, my eyebrow raising.

He scratched the back of his head, considering my words. "That's... technically true," he mumbled, a small internal battle playing out in his eyes. Finally, he let out a low sigh. "Okay, yeah, sure," he agreed, pressing his lips into a thin line, "I won't tell him."

I passed by him and tapped my hand over his shoulder in an appreciative manner, "You're the best," I said, though my tone betrayed my weary self.

"Anything I can help with?" He asked, his eyebrows pulling closer in concern as he eyed my disoriented state.

I shook my head, "I just need to freshen up and leave, I've got classes to catch up to," And an early morning date I needed more than I needed to breathe. My gaze fell onto my crumpled sweatshirt and I glared at it, trying to recall if I'd left any spare clothes in my car.

"You can take a shower if you want," Jeremy suggested, his voice pulling my gaze back to him. "The bathroom in Nikolas's office has a shower in it," he said. I nodded, feeling the weight of exhaustion in my bones, "Yeah, that would be great," I sighed, my eyebrows pulling closer as I asked, "Also, are there any spare clothes around here?"

Jeremy nodded, "Yeah, sure," he replied, pulling out a key and heading down the hall. "Come with me," he said, and I followed, our footsteps echoing softly against the cold floor. We paused by Nikolas's office. Jeremy unlocked it, the door creaking as it opened before we stepped inside.

"When Nikolas gets blood on him, he usually drops by here and changes before going home," Jeremy explained as he opened a small wooden closet, revealing a neat assortment of clothes. Jeremy's lips twitched with a small smile, "Natalie doesn't like it when he comes home with bloodied clothes," he added, a hint of amusement in his voice, like he was recalling a funny memory.

My brows furrowed, the weight of it all settling in, "How does he do it?" I murmured.

"Do what?" Jeremy asked, his head tilting slightly.

"This. Leading two lives that are so...contradicting," I pointed out, "One where he has this normal family and life, and then there is all of this," I added while looking around, indirectly addressing what this place represented.

Jeremy's gaze softened, "Well, he only does this when necessary," he said, referring to this darker side of things. "He isn't as involved as he once was. I'm sure you know that," he continued, and I nodded, knowing well that his sister was the real leader now; my aunt, I suppose.

"He only steps in when he's needed," Jeremy added, "But true, he somehow manages to keep these two parts of his life apart, which is the only right way to do it."

A subtle smile crossed Jeremy's lips, "Well, the truth is there isn't a thing Nikolas doesn't know how to do," he added, his tone tinged with an almost unbreakable loyalty and I really wondered about its source.

I didn't have much to say, still caught in the thoughts swirling in my mind. Jeremy noticed my silence and shifted his stance. "Anyway, I'm sure you can find something in here that fits you," he said, and I nodded. "Thanks," I mumbled as he slipped away.

I rummaged through the clothes, the fabric sliding beneath my fingers until I found an outfit that might fit me. I took a quick shower, feeling the hot water soothe my tense muscles, washing away the night's fatigue. Afterward, I dressed in his clothes—a crisp, black polo shirt that somehow fit me just right, I combined it with a pair of tailored, charcoal-grey trousers that tapered down to just above my own white sneakers.

I returned to where I'd left my things, collecting them all. I was ready to leave when Jeremy reappeared, most probably to bid me goodbye. He paused by the door, his gaze flickering all over me for a long moment before he smiled, it was so warm and genuine. My throat bobbed and I looked down at myself, suddenly aware of the clothes draped over me.

A strange mix of feelings twisted in my chest. The way the fabric hugged my frame made me feel both like myself and not like myself at all, like stepping into someone else's shadow and trying it on for size.

"I don't want you to take this the wrong way," Jeremy started, his eyes so focused on me, like he was watching a memory, "But you look so much like him, it's unsettling."

The burn in my throat flared up, spreading through my chest. I was all too aware of that fact, and I despised it more than I could ever put into words. "I know," I muttered dismissively.

Jeremy seemed to understand, and he shifted on his feet, breaking the tension, "Uh, anyway, good luck with classes," he said, turning to leave. I watched him start to go but stopped him, "Jeremy," I called out, "Can I ask for one more favor?"

He turned back, lines etching his forehead, "Does it involve me lying?" he asked, a playful edge creeping into his tone.

I shrugged, "Can you tell me when everyone here leaves in the evening?"

His brow furrowed, "You want to crash here again?"

"I just need a few days away from everyone, I guess," I mumbled.

A low sigh left his lips, but he nodded, "Sure, I'll text you." A small smile crept onto my face, and I gave him a nod, lifting a hand in a slight wave as I headed for the door, "Thank you, Jer," I said. He gave me a half-hearted salute, "Always welcome," he mumbled, just as I stepped out of the bunker and headed to my car.

About an hour later, I was pushing open the coffee shop's door, the small bell chiming overhead. My gaze swept the place, landing on two half-asleep students nursing their coffees in one corner. I moved to the counter, and Aubrey turned around at the sound of my footsteps, her eyes meeting mine with a knowing smile.

"Morning," I greeted, holding up two fingers. "Two coffees, please."

She narrowed her eyes playfully at me as I made the payment, then turned to start my order. I slipped behind the counter to her side, casually leaning against it, "Well, I should just hire you, shouldn't I?" Aubrey quipped with a grin.

"You really should," I said with a nod. More time Valerie? How could I ever refuse that?

She shook her head at me and my smile widened, "When do you think she'll be here?" I asked.

Aubrey glanced at her watch, "In a couple of minutes," She informed.

I straightened myself and opened the croissant box I'd picked up on my way from the bakery, took one out, and placed it on a plate, "This is for you," I said, sliding it her way.

Her eyes flicked from the croissant to me, a teasing smile tugging at her lips, "Someone's in a good mood," she commented.

I shrugged, "It's the first time I'm starting my morning with her in a very long time, so yeah," I said with a low sigh, though my mood was a mess of nerves and new hopes.

Aubrey's smile softened, "I told you, just give her time, it'll work out," she said, the only one privy to the fragile steps we were taking to rekindle what once was.

I nodded, a quiet, "Yeah, you did say that," escaping my lips.

I picked up the coffee cups and the pastry box as Aubrey pushed the door to the back for me. "Thanks," I murmured as I stepped inside. I pulled a small counter closer, setting up two chairs just in time as the door opened again. Valerie exchanged a few words with Aubrey before her head turned and her eyes found me.

Her lips twitched in a shy, almost hesitant smile, "Morning," she greeted, stepping inside and setting her shoulder bag aside.

She edged closer, and without a second thought, my arm snaked around her waist, pulling her to me. I dipped my head, pressing a soft peck to her cheek, "Morning," I whispered, my eyes fluttering shut as her familiar scent—fresh, sweet, and addictive—wrapped around me, pulling me in deeper.

Her eyes flickered up to me, a light pinkish color coated her cheek and my heart soared, it was ready to fall into her palms right at this moment. Her eye flickered down to my shirt, and she brought her hand up and fixed my collar, "Someone is looking handsome today," she said.

My smile grew wider, trying to adjust to the fact that she was complimenting me. She rarely ever did that. My eyebrow raised as my gaze fell into her light-green wool sweater, the color bringing out the golden flecks in her eyes, "Did you wear green specifically because I like it on you?" I asked and she rolled her eyes at me, "No, of course not," She said, acting all indifferent, "It was just the only clean shirt I had," She added.

My eyebrows pulled closer and I brought my hand to her face, brushing a stray hair behind her ear, "Hold on, what's that on your eyes," I said, leaning in closer, "Is that makeup," I asked, a tease curling my lips, "Gingy, are you trying to impress me?" I asked, purposely pushing her buttons.

Her face heated up, "Of course not," She shot out, breaking skin contact and stepping back, "You're still so full of yourself, I see," She said, digging into her bag with a flustered expression. I watched her in absolute delight, my lips twitching as I drank into every detail; her cute outfit, her ginger hair falling over her shoulders, not to mention the strawberry clip she had on one side. God, I was a gone case with this girl.

My heart ached slightly and my smile fell short, recalling what it felt like not to have her so close.

She pulled something out of her bag and edged closer, "I made us sandwiches—" she started to say, her words trailing off as they fell on the pastry box I'd picked up, "Well, I also got us some croissants," I said, knowing well enough how much she loved them. Her eyes flickered back to mine, her gaze softening, "Oh," she murmured, her voice quiet, almost hesitant, as if she were ready to retreat and dump the sandwiches somewhere, feeling like she'd been outdone.

Before she could pull away, my hand reached out, wrapping around her wrist gently, holding her in place. I took one of the sandwiches from her hand, the warmth of her touch lingering on my skin. "You made me a sandwich?" I asked softly, my heart stumbling over itself, caught between a breath and a heartbeat as I noticed the way she'd cut and wrapped it with such care, paying attention to every little detail.

She shrugged, "Well, I didn't want you to stare as I ate mine," She said, all casual, "It's common decency, that's all," She added, still pretending to act so differently.

God, she was going to be the end of me, wasn't she?

"Thank you," I said, my voice much softer. Her teeth nibbled at her lower lip and she gave me a small shrug, "It's nothing," She whispered as she rested hers over the counter. I placed mine down as well before we sat down.

Her chair was set a bit too far for my liking, so I reached out, gripping the lower rail, and tugged it closer to me. Valerie let out a soft, startled yelp at the sudden movement, her eyes flashing to mine, wide and questioning. I couldn't help but smile, satisfied now that she was close—so close I could breathe her in, strawberries, mingled with something uniquely her. Close enough to study every freckle, every line of her face that I adored more than words could ever capture, close enough to lean in and—

She cleared her throat, pulling me out of my reverie, her gaze flicking away to the carton box on the counter, "Let's eat," she urged, her voice breaking the spell, "We don't have much time before class," She picked up one of the croissants, taking a small bite.

I picked up my coffee cup and just watched her eat hers, unable to get enough.

After a few moments, she glanced at me from the corner of her eye, "Stop looking at me," she mumbled in that familiar, defensive tone, ever so guarded.

"I haven't looked at you in so long, I need this," I said and she rolled her eyes. She tore off a small piece of her pastry and, with a little sigh, moved it closer to my mouth, "Eat," she ordered, a soft scolding in her voice, "Don't start with coffee on an empty stomach."

I wasn't hungry—not in the slightest. My stomach was a mess of knots from her nearness, from everything that had been piling up in my life. But how could I say no to her? I leaned in, letting her feed me, my lips brushing the tips of her fingers, so soft, so warm.

Her eyes locked onto mine, a spark of something flickering there, her fingers lingering near my lips, as if she wanted to stay in that moment for just a heartbeat longer. Lines formed between her brows as she studied me, her voice softening to a whisper, "You look tired."

"I didn't have much sleep," I said.

Her frown deepened, a small crease forming between her brows, "What happened?"

Just as I opened my mouth to answer, my phone buzzed on the counter, dragging my attention away. The word "Mom" flashed across the screen, and I stared at it for a beat too long.

"You're not going to answer?" Valerie asked.

I shook my head and flipped the phone over, hiding it from view, "I'll call her later," I mumbled, though I wasn't sure when that later would come.

Valerie wiped her hands on a napkin before she leaned in closer, her hand gently resting on my arm, her touch grounding me, "Did something happen?" She asked softly.

I nodded, feeling the tension knotting up inside me, "I kind of fought with them."

Her brows drew together in concern, "Your parents?" she murmured, and I nodded again.

"Why?" she pressed, her eyes searching mine.

I let out a heavy breath, running a hand through my hair, trying to find the right words, "Will you be free this evening?" I asked instead, sidestepping the question. She narrowed her eyes, a knowing look crossing her face, "Are you just postponing telling me so you'd see me more?" she asked, catching on.

I nodded, shameless, "Sue me, but I missed you so much, Valerie," I admitted, my voice dropping to a softer tone, the honesty raw in my words, "I need every excuse there is to see more of you."

She purposely tore her gaze away and glanced down before she picked up her coffee cup, pretending to be busy with it, "After my shift here at six, I'm free," She mumbled, her eyes flickering back to me. My smile widened and I nodded, "Cool, then I'll pick you up, we'll go sit somewhere and talk," I said and she pretended to roll her eyes, ever so not interested, "Yeah, okay, whatever."

I nudged her with my elbow, "I know that you missed me too," I said.

She glanced back at me, for a long second before she nodded her head, her defense lowering, "I did," She mumbled, "These past months, they were..." She heaved out a low breath, "..so tiring."

I lifted my hand, fingertips brushing against her cheek with a featherlight touch, like she might disappear if I pressed any harder, "I know," I mumbled, my fingers moving the fallen strands of her hair and tucking them back, my eyes lingering over the scar she had above her eyebrow and right below her hairline, almost too fresh, too real, reminding me of her state when I found her that day.

A tightness formed in my chest, and my thumb stroked her skin lightly, "I promise I'll never hide anything from you again," I said, meaning every word, knowing that I'd tell her everything, lay it all out in the open.

"And I need you to never hide anything from me either, Valerie," I added, my voice steady but imploring. I needed to know everything—if he ever tried to reach her again, come near her, threaten her in any way. I had to be aware, to protect her, to plan our moves carefully.

She nodded her head, her eyes gazing back at me like they believed in me and that calmed me down a notch. Her face was so close, our breaths mingling, and for a moment, the world narrowed down to just her—just us.

Her hand came up, warm and soft, covering mine and holding it to her cheek like she didn't want to let go, savoring this closeness just like I was. Beyond my control, my gaze dropped to her inviting lips, my whole body yearning for her, aching, and wanting to bridge that final gap between us.

She must have sensed it—read the need in my eyes—because she leaned in, closer, granting me the permission I was desperate for. I dipped my head, my lips brushing over hers, the gentlest touch, savoring that split second before losing myself in her taste, ready to fall deep—

A sharp knock on the door jolted us apart. "You guys, I need milk!" Aubrey's voice rang out, followed by another knock, more insistent this time, "I am out of milk, come on, are you two naked in there?" She added jokingly.

My jaw ticked and I glared daggers at the door, hating the fucked up fate that kept finding ways to interrupt us.

Valerie sensed my annoyance and she chuckled lowly, her eyes crinkling with amusement as she called back, "Just a sec, Aubrey!"

Before I could fully register it, she leaned in and pressed a quick kiss to my lips, soft and swift, but she lingered just a moment longer than a simple peck should.

My heart lurched, the unexpected sweetness of it making my breath hitch. She pulled back, her eyes filled with a warmth that stole the air right out of my lungs, her smile like a balm to every ache I'd ever known, "I'll see you in class?" she asked, her voice so gentle I felt like I might just die.

I nodded, swallowing back the sudden rush of emotions that clogged my throat. I felt out of breath all of a sudden, "See you in class," I mumbled lowly.

Valerie moved around the small kitchen, grabbing the carton of milk and heading for the door where Aubrey waited on the other side. I stayed where I was, stuck in my seat, a bit startled and all out of sorts, my heart still racing like it didn't know how to do anything else around her.

The moment she was out of sight, a low groan slipped past my lips, and I ran a hand over my face, trying to get a grip. I was so fucking in love with her, wasn't I?

•────•°•❀•°•────•

Cole's POV

"Hey there, vomit girl!" I called out as I skidded to a stop right in front of her, blocking her path and making her stumble straight into me.

A small gasp escaped her lips, and she took a step back, her head snapping up as she glared at me, her brows drawing together in clear irritation, "What the hell is wrong with you?" she snapped, smoothing down her ridiculously tiny jean skirt and adjusting her pink, glittery t-shirt. She looked like a life-sized Barbie, all dolled up, and I had to bite back the urge to roll my eyes. I hated Barbies.

"I need your help," I said, skipping past the pleasantries—never really had a knack for them anyway.

She raised a perfectly arched eyebrow at me, unimpressed, "And why, exactly, would I help you?" she challenged.

"Because it's about your friend," I replied, trying to keep my patience intact.

Her other eyebrow shot up to join the first, "Which friend?"

I rolled my eyes, not bothering to hide my exasperation, "Valerie. Who else?" I huffed.

That got her attention. Her expression tightened, eyes narrowing in suspicion, "What about Valerie?"

I sighed dramatically, "You see, she and my awesome best friend broke up. And now this said awesome friend of mine has been a complete mess ever since," I explained, pointing back and forth between her and me, "And we are going to fix that mess and get them back together."

She stared at me like I had three heads, her face completely deadpan, "Well, if your friend is anything like you, then she's better off without him," she said, already turning on her heel to walk away like she had better things to do.

Before she could escape, I grabbed her arm, pulling her back. "Hold up, Barbie," I grumbled, feeling my patience wearing thin, "You're gonna help me. I'm not exactly asking for your opinion here."

She yanked her arm free, swatting my hand away with a sharp glare, "First of all, I have a name!" she spat back, her cheeks flushing with anger, "And second, I would rather eat glass than help you," She shot out, "Stay away from me!"

I chuckled darkly, shaking my head, "Yeah, I kinda figured you'd be a bit of a handful," I said, giving her a once-over from head to toe. She looked like trouble wrapped in pink satin, "So, I did a little digging around, some researching, I mean I do have my connections, and guess what?"

I crossed my arms over my chest, smirking, "Turns out your mommy is having quite the affair, and I bet you don't want dear old Daddy finding that out, huh?" Her eyes widened instantly, panic flashing across her face at my knowledge of this little sensitive matter, "Imagine the fallout. Family dinners might get awkward, don't you think?"

She took a step back, eyes darting all over my face, searching for any hint of bluff, "Are you blackmailing me?" she asked, her voice a mix of disbelief and fury.

I nodded, shrugging like it was no big deal, "Yeah, that's exactly what I'm doing."

"You're horrible!" she spat, her face flushing red.

I nodded again, unconcerned. "Yup, and I'm okay with that," I replied breezily, "So, are you in or out?"

She let out an exasperated groan, her eyes practically shooting daggers at me, "God, I don't even know why they broke up! Valerie didn't even tell me they were together, to begin with," she grumbled, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Yeah, well, that makes two of us," I said, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and steering her along beside me as she glared daggers up at me, "But don't worry, I've got a plan—or two."

She looked like she was calculating a hundred ways to murder me and bury the body where it'd never be found, "Fine," she muttered begrudgingly, "But if you bring up the affair topic ever again, I'm telling everyone you're a psychopath."

"Deal," I said, totally unbothered by her, "Now let's go make some magic happen."

•────•°•❀•°•────•

Max's POV

One of the hardest things I'd had to do, was keep my eyes glued to the professor droning on about theories and facts or something equally uninteresting, and not sneak a glance at Valerie, who sat a few rows to my right.

It was insanely hard over the past weeks as well, but something about the fact that we're back together now, made it even harder.

I could feel Cole's eyes on me, practically burning a hole in the side of my head. I turned to him, raising an eyebrow in question. He leaned in, lowering his voice, "Where'd you sleep last night?"

"Why?"

His gaze flicked to the front of the class as if checking to see if the professor was paying attention, "Because your dad called me last night," he replied, making my spine straighten. My attention snapped to him, now fully alert, "He wanted to know if you were crashing at my place," he continued.

"And?" I prompted, tension coiling in my muscles.

Cole sighed, giving a slight nod. "And, of course, I lied and told him you were with me," he said, sounding as if he deserved a medal for it.

"Thanks," I muttered, exhaling in relief, grateful for his cover.

"Yeah, yeah, you're welcome. Now spill—where were you?" His brow arched, suspicion etched across his face, "If you were at some girl's place, just say the word. I'm very supportive of that."

I shook my head, not willing to give him an answer. Cole groaned and slumped back in his seat like he'd just been handed a life sentence, "You are one hell of a headache, Maxwell Dolan," he grumbled.

I nudged him with my elbow, coaxing him to look at me again. He shot me an unimpressed look, "Yeah?"

I smiled, "I'm lucky to have you, that's all."

His lips twitched, and his scowl softened a fraction, "Yeah, you are," he admitted with a smirk.

A few minutes later, the professor announced a break. Cole stretched as if he'd just run a marathon, "Finally," He said, "Imma grab a snack. Want anything?" he asked, already halfway out of his seat.

I shook my head, and he headed out. I waited for the other students to clear out before allowing my gaze to slide over to Valerie. She had her elbow propped on the desk, cheek resting in her palm, lost in her own world as she doodled in her notebook. Her brows were furrowed, her lips slightly parted, and she was so engrossed that I couldn't help but smile.

I looked around the hall, noting that only a couple of students were left at the back, all preoccupied. Seizing the moment, I tore a piece of paper from my notebook, folded it into a makeshift rocket, and sent it flying in her direction.

It hit her square on the head. She jerked up, eyes wide, darting around until they landed on me. I grinned, and her eyes narrowed. She looked around, seeing the few remaining people, and mouthed, Look away.

I shook my head. She crumpled the rocket into a ball and tossed it back, but it landed miles away from me—her aim was atrocious. I raised an eyebrow, silently mocking her terrible throw. She glared, and I blew her a playful kiss. She rolled her eyes, burying her face in her hands, clearly done with me.

As if the universe was on my side, the last of the students in the back moved to the front and left the hall, closing the door behind them. Now, it was just me and Valerie in this vast, empty space.

"Gingy," I called for her.

Her head shot up, and she glanced around, realizing we were alone, "Where'd everyone go?" she asked, her brows knitting together in confusion.

I shrugged, too thrilled by the sudden privacy to care, "Can I come over and steal a kiss?"

"No," she said firmly, "Someone could walk in at any moment."

"You're no fun," I fake pouted.

She shot me a withering look, "And you—"

But before she could finish, a deafening alarm blared through the hall, coming from outside and cutting her off. My head snapped toward the sound and I got up to check it out.

"Is that the fire alarm?" Valerie asked, her voice rising as she quickly followed me to the door.

"I'm not sure," I mumbled, reaching for the door handle. I pulled, then pushed, but it wouldn't budge. I frowned and tried again, harder, "What the—"

"Is it locked?" Valerie's voice pitched with panic.

"I'm not sure. It's stuck or something," I said, still jiggling the handle.

"Oh my God," she gasped, now in full-blown panic mode, "Are we gonna die in here?"

I turned around, holding back a laugh at her dramatics, "Relax, it's probably just a drill. I don't smell smoke or hear people running or anything of that sort."

Valerie shoved past me and pounded on the door, "HELP!" she shouted, "We're stuck in here!"

I grabbed her arm, pulling her back gently, "Jesus, Valerie, calm down. I'm sure it's nothing," I said.

Her eyes were wide and frantic, "How can you be so calm?" she snapped, swatting my hands away, "We could die!"

I raised an eyebrow, "I won't let you die. Promise."

She groaned and facepalmed, "God, no wonder I pulled you back from the edge of death," she mumbled, clearly done with me.

"You know, since we're gonna die anyway, per your words," I said, "We should totally have sex," I added, playfully, reveling in pushing her buttons, "Better go with a bang."

Her eyes widened and she looked at me like I was an alien. She looked left and right, as if searching for something, "What are you looking for?" I asked.

"Something sharp to hit you in the head with," she muttered, dead serious.

Just then, the alarm abruptly stopped. I grinned, "See? We're not dead."

She narrowed her eyes at me and grumbled some profanities under her breath. The door opened, and the professor walked in, his eyes darting from the handle and between us, "Who locked the door?" he asked, clearly as confused as we were.

I shrugged innocently, "No idea," I said, just as students started filing back in, chattering about the alarm being a false one.

I nudged Valerie, "Told you I wouldn't let you die," I whispered with a wink before heading back to my seat, feeling her annoyed gaze burning into the back of my head.

Just as I settled in my seat, Cole came back and plopped down next to me, eyebrows raised, "You heard that?"

I nodded, "Yeah, what's it about?"

"Someone accidentally triggered the alarm," he said, waving it off like it was nothing. His gaze flicked over to Valerie and her friend, then back to me, his eyes narrowing, "Were you and Valerie in here alone when it happened?"

I nodded my head, "Yeah."

"So, did you...talk or something?" he asked, his tone strangely hopeful.

My eyebrows pulled closer and I turned to him, "Talk?" I echoed, confused.

He nodded, "Yeah, you know when near-death experiences occur, people tend to talk about their feelings and all, stuff like that," He said, rambling on before he scratched the back of his neck, "So, you didn't talk?"

I shook my head, "No, I knew it was a fake alarm anyway," I said, refocusing my attention on the lecture.

I could see Cole in peripheral vision glancing at someone to our right. My gaze flickered back to him, just as he was giving the thumbs-down to someone but he straightened himself when I almost caught him. I tried to look in that direction to understand, "Who were you talking to?"

Cole's brows furrowed, feigning innocence. "No one," he muttered quickly. "Now focus—this lecture is important," he added, clearly trying to change the subject.

I kept my skeptical gaze on him for a moment; he was up to something for sure.

•────•°•❀•°•────•

Valerie's POV

I was about to push the door open to the coffee shop when a voice called out, breaking through the noise of the street, "Valerie, Valerie!" I turned around, and there was Tanya, running toward me like the devil was chasing her, panting and clutching her chest as if she'd sprinted a mile to get here.

"Tanya, what's wrong?" I asked, eyebrows knitting together at the sight of her so frazzled.

Her breaths were quick, jagged, "I... I ran into that Cole guy," she stammered out, "and he was saying, talking about how your ex-boyfriend, he...he had a setback in his health. Collapsed in the gym room or something, and they're waiting for a doctor—"

"What?" The word left my lips like a gasp, my heart seizing up. My mind flooded with panic, each frantic beat echoing louder, "Where is he?" I demanded, the terror clawing at me as I recalled how exhausted he had seemed this morning—how he'd looked that one time before...God, no. "Where is he now?"

"In the gym room, I—" she began, but I was already sprinting, my feet pounding against the pavement. My lungs burned and I kept on running, my feet taking me as fast as they possibly could as the darkest scenarios played in my head. I threw all the caution away, not caring who would figure out that we were back together. I just needed him okay.

I skidded to a stop down the hall and saw Cole, who was pacing like a nervous wreck, fiddling with his nails, "Cole!" I called, half breathless, "Where's Max?"

His eyes met mine, and he pointed to a door. "He's inside, he—" But I didn't wait for him to finish. I shoved the door open and stumbled in, only to freeze dead in my tracks. The humid air hit me first, then the sight of Max standing by the lockers, in the middle of pulling off his shirt.

I jogged forward, my heels clicking against the tiles, and the sounds of my steps had his head turn around. His eyes fell on me and he paused, confusion surged all over his face, "Valerie?" He questioned, "What are you doing here?" He asked.

What the—

My eyes swept over him—his bare chest, smooth and gleaming with a thin layer of sweat. He looked...fine.

He looked more than fine.

I moved closer, my eyes flickering all over him, checking still for anything out of the ordinary.

"Gingy, if you wanted to see me naked, you could've just asked," he said, ever so Max-like, "You didn't have to barge into the bathroom like this."

My hands moved like they had a mind of their own, startled and flustered, trying to understand as I ran them from his bare chest and down, checking for anything, "But...you look okay," I whispered, my eyes falling into his face, "You're okay?"

He nodded, "I was," He mumbled, his voice lowering, his gaze falling into my hands, ever so casually pressed into his skin, "Until you started touching me. Now I'm feeling a little dizzy," he added, that little devil in his eyes waking up, assuring me that he was a hundred percent okay.

"But...but Tanya and Cole," I mumbled, looking back, "They said..." I paused, trying to understand what was going on.

Max's eyebrows pulled closer and he edged to me, his hands going to my arms, steadying me in one place, "What do you mean? What happened?" he asked.

"Tanya said that you got hurt and Cole led me here, they said you weren't okay," I mumbled, utterly lost, "Why would they say that?"

My words seemed to piece some type of puzzle in Max's head, "Ohhh," He mumbled, "Now I get it," he said, before he chuckled lowly. He rushed a hand over his face, "God, this idiot."

"What?" I demanded, frustration surging.

"Valerie," he started, clearly amused, "I think our dear friends are trying to play matchmaker and bring us back together."

My jaw dropped, "What? Seriously?"

He nodded, still chuckling, "Yeah, first the fake alarm, and now this. I should've seen it coming."

My breath came out in a huff, adrenaline still coursing through my veins, "God, they nearly gave me a heart attack."

Max took a step closer, his bare chest still threatening my sanity, his smirk growing more devilish by the second, "Valerie, were you worried about me?" he teased, his eyes glinting with mischief. He really reveled in every time I showed him an ounce of affection. This depraved human.

I folded my arms across my chest, masking the heat creeping up my neck, "Please. I was just worried I'd have to start writing my own notes."

He moved even closer, until I had to step back, and then again, until my back hit the cold metal lockers. His hand came up beside my head, and he leaned in, his lips so close I could feel the warmth of his breath. His face was so deliciously handsome as he gazed at me, like a predator ready to consume his prey, yet I was the least threatened. If anything, I was intrigued.

"Back off," I muttered, my heart betraying me by pounding even louder.

"Why?" He asked, pushing my buttons.

"Because..."

"Because what?" he pressed, his eyebrow arching in a way that made my stomach flip.

"Because you're... you're all naked and sweaty, and you know," I stammered, struggling to find the right words as his closeness muddled my thoughts.

His smile widened, slow and dangerous. He leaned in, brushing his lips over my cheek in the softest, most innocent kiss, "You're so adorable," he whispered, his voice like silk and smoke, "So innocent," He added, "I can't wait to taint you."

Jesus Christ, for some unknown reason, I did want him to taint me.

He pulled back just in time, his proximity retreating before I collapsed into a jelly-legged mess on the tile floor. I clutched my throat, trying to steady my racing pulse, "Uh... should we, like, tell them?" I asked, my voice shaky as I scrambled for safer ground.

Max, ever the provocateur, slipped his shirt back on—thank God for that—though his smirk didn't lose any of its lethal charm, "We could," he mused, "Or we could make them squirm a little more," he suggested, his eyes gleaming with wicked amusement.

A matching grin curled my lips, "Yeah, I like that," I said, nodding, "Let's torture them some more."

He chuckled, clearly enjoying the devilish twist in my thoughts, "Alright then," he said, eyes alight with mischief, "Let's give them a show." He leaned closer again, wrapping his arm around my waist as he walked me to the entrance, "When I say, 'I never want to see you again,' what I really mean is I can't wait to pick you up after your shift."

I bit my lip to keep from laughing and nodded, playing along, "And when I say, 'I don't ever want to run into you again,' it means I'll be waiting for you by the bus stop. You can pick me up from there," I added, leaning in with a grin that matched his own game of make-believe.

His smile widened, and I could feel his breath fanning over my skin as he leaned and whispered, "And when I say, 'You're my biggest regret', what I actually mean is, you're the prettiest, most exquisite thing that ever came into my life," He murmured.

I looked up at him, my heart unable to get a grip, "And when I shout out, 'You asshole! Jerk!', what I actually mean is..." My voice lowered a notch, "...I can't imagine my life without you anymore."

For a moment, his eyes darkened, and I thought maybe he'd pull me in, and kiss me like there was no tomorrow. But then, with a look that made my pulse stutter and my breath hitch, he stepped back, opened the door, and we both strutted outside, slipping into our roles like a second skin.

We put on our most convincingly annoyed expressions, especially when we spotted Cole and Tanya huddled in a corner, watching us like they'd stumbled into the middle of a soap opera.

I gave Max the Go-for-it look and he started, "You know what, I never want to see you again!" He shot out.

I pushed myself away from him, shooting him a glare that would melt ice, "See me? God, I don't ever want to run into you again!" I snapped, loud enough to ensure our audience could hear every word.

Max scoffed, "God, you're my biggest regret ever," He said.

I shot him a glare, "You asshole!" I added more drama as I punched his chest, and he looked taken aback, "Jerk!"

And then, without missing a beat, I spun on my heel and stormed off, making sure to shoot Max a sly, triumphant glance and a quick wink over my shoulder. His lips twitched, almost betraying him, but he managed to keep it together as Cole moved closer, his face twisted in utter confusion and bewilderment.

Tanya, meanwhile, looked like she was trying to piece together a puzzle with half the pieces missing before she shook her head and stormed after me.

I quickened my pace, my footsteps echoing down the hall, the thrill of our little charade bubbling in my chest. I needed some space to keep my composure and not break out into laughter. As I kept moving, my phone buzzed in my pocket. I pulled it out, already guessing who it could be.

Kidney boy: God, you're sexy when you're angry.

My smile grew wider and I typed down;

Me: This is Flirting 101: The Art of Fake Fights. Study up.

A moment later, another buzz:

Kidney Boy: Is Lesson 2 making out in secret places?

I rolled my eyes, my smile growing even more.

Me: Lesson 2 is learning how to take a hint *eye roll*

Kidney Boy: Lesson 3: How to turn that eye-roll into a makeout :*

Me: Lesson 4: you're insane

Kidney Boy: Lesson 5: you're the best thing that ever happened to me.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

They're just so cute, aren't they :)
From all the couples I wrote, I really think they're the cutest.

Anyways, I hope you liked the chapter!
See ya soon :)