**OLIVER WEST**
My lips were still tingling, and when I glanced to the side. Sure enough, Amanda was still standing a few feet away. Her lips were pressed thin, her fists tight at her sides.
The best part? She turned away without a word and disappeared into the trees.
"Yeah, run along," I muttered under my breath, unable to stop myself from smiling widely. My chest felt light, almost giddy, as if I had won some ridiculous prize.
Kieran's hand slid into mine, tugging me gently as he started to lead me deeper into the woods. I suppose we were partners now, better than me working with Amanda or Kieran doing so.
The noise of the others faded until it was only us, and the crunch of twigs under our feet.
"Why are we going further? There doesn't seem to be mushrooms here," I said, though I didn't exactly pull away.
"It's quieter here." His voice was low, and steady beside me. "And I want you all to myself."
