CHAPTER 21: LUCIA

When I'm finally home, Ivan's the last person I expect to see. I really hoped I would be in my room by the time he got back from work just so I could avoid him because believe you me, I'm still outrightly embarrassed over the events of last night.

He must be home early because of his mum.

But then again, I guess it's a good thing I'm seeing him now. I'll just use the opportunity to apologize for last night. Hopefully, he's not too angry because it's really hard to figure him out as he walks to me.

"Hey, how was dinner?" No doubt Pavel told him I was going out with my friends.

"Dinner was great. I didn't think you'd be home this early." We're now walking together towards the stairs.

"My mom."

I can feel the thick tension rolling out of the two of us in perfect synchronization with how awkward our conversation is, and I don't like it one bit. It's all my fault.

"Look," I stop abruptly halfway up the stairs with a hand over his to stop him as well. "I'm sorry about my behaviour last nig