Ash's POV
I checked the time on my phone.
7:36 p.m.
My chest dropped.
"No…no, no," I muttered, already backing away. "I'm late. I really have to go."
June was still holding her dad's hand. Her eyes were red, but she smiled anyway.
"Text me when you get back," she said.
"I will." I nodded, then glanced at her dad. "Thank you for coming today, sir."
He smiled warmly. "You're a good friend to her. My regards to baby Alia."
Her dad smiled at me. That warm, proud smile that made my throat tighten.
"Take care of yourself," he said.
I nodded, and waved.
I ran out of the school building, flagged down a cab, and climbed in.
The city blurred past the window as the driver sped through traffic.
My head was pounding. My chest felt tight.
Get it together, I told myself.
The cab stopped in front of a quiet villa.
No music.
I paid the driver, slung my bag over my shoulder, and walked in.
Sam and two others were already there, adjusting their shirts.
