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"I can’t watch this any, not sure where I’ My h the endless possibilities, the scenarios that could play out tonight I don’t knohat to do, what to say, how to act

All I know is that I need to get away from Zachary Get away from Pilar and Ryder and … all of them

I can’t take it

"Violet, wait" I hear Ryder’s deep voice call after me but I don’t stop His request actuallyattention when someone calls my name, when another person waves I don’t care I just want to leave, to get soht now it’s a jumble of confusion, of liquor, of arousal and irritation and hate and need

I spot the double doors that lead outside and I rush toward theh the center as they side I take in deep, gulping breaths of air as the cool spring night hits lance around Despite ular pool in the center, the giant pots of overflowing colorful eous location, and I can’t believe the majority of us were stuck inside e all could be out here, ads, feel the refreshing breeze blow across our skin

"Violet" I feel a war into my skin, and I close my eyes His thumb traces the strap of my dress, slips beneath it for the briefesthe would touchmore alone, more despondent than ever

"Please leavein the least if I’ him I blame the alcohol I’m usually so careful with my words, withwithout a care, so really, why should I worry?

"I upset you" Ryder’s deep voice washes over er or irritation But I feel so … different Never, ever before has a man’s voice twisted me up inside and made me yearn "I didn’t mean to do that I’m just …"

"You’re just what?" I ask, my voice small, my back still to him I can’t face him I’m afraid I’ll stare into his eyes and drink in all of those handso stupid Like throw et

Warmth suffuses my body and I release another shuddery breath This is definitely the wine talking

"Jealous Worried" Another pause, this one heavy with unspoken tension "Pilar and I … we have an unusual relationship"