67

OLIVIA

I step out of the car, slamming the door so hard that the sound seems to echo.

I swallow hard, knowing that I have done something stupid but I won't let that get to me.

I look around, my eyes taking in the unfamiliar surroundings.

Where are we? Is this really the venue for our date?

"There is no need to slam the door like that," Aiden says as he comes to stand beside me.

I lift my shoulder in a half shrug, refusing to look at him. “ You can't tell me what to do. I can slam the car door if I want. Are you worried your car door will break?" I retort.

"No,” He replies. “ I am just worried you'll hurt your hand by slamming the door so hard.”

“ I am fine, so leave me alone,” I blurt out.

“ What's the matter with you?” Aiden demands.

I fold my arms over my chest, fighting the urge to face him. I can feel the laughter bubbling up inside me, but I have to hold it in.

This is not the right time to laugh. I am faking an act. I have to keep up the act. I am trying to act like I am m