“It was true.”
Michelle looked down.
“I still think we should stop.”
“Why?”
“Because this can hurt people.”
“So can pretending.”
“Evan—”
“I tried.”
She stopped.
“I tried to forget it. I went to class. I went out with friends. I kept telling myself it was six weird days in a quiet house.”
My voice lowered.
“It didn’t work.”
Michelle’s eyes became glossy.
“I miss you too.”
“Then stop sending me away.”
“I’m older than you.”
“I know.”
“Your mother is my best friend.”
“I know.”
“You could wake up six months from now and realize this was some strange fantasy.”
“So could you.”
She blinked.
I stepped closer.
“I’m not asking for forever tonight.”
Her breathing changed.
“I’m asking you to stop lying about today.”
A tear slipped down her cheek.
I reached up and wiped it away.
She closed her eyes at my touch.
