CHAPTER EIGHTY ONE

ELLA'S POV

My heart pounded hard in my chest as I scanned the hallway, finally spotting Damien at his locker. This was my chance. I had to warn him, no matter how awkward it might be between us.

Taking a breath, I started towards him, dodging between the clusters of students. "Damien!" I called out once I drew closer.

He looked up at the sound of my voice, brows knitting together slightly. There was a pause before he responded. "Ella? What's up?"

I came to a halt in front of him, gnawing on my lower lip. How was I supposed to phrase this? "Look, I...I need to tell you something. In private."

Damien's frown deepened, but after a moment's hesitation he gave a slight nod and stepped away from his locker. "Okay, let's talk over here."

He led the way to a secluded place, out of earshot from the other students walking about. Once we were alone, I turned to face him fully, struggling to maintain his stare.

"I'm just going to cut right to it," I began in a low tone. "You need to warn your dad