Chapter 78

- LOUISA –

Calder insists on putting me and Ward up in a hotel for the night. I hate the idea of taking charity from my brother, especially after everything he's already done today - and judging by Ward's expression, he feels the same way - but before I can say anything, Lily cuts me off.

"I'd love the chance to get to know you better, Louisa," she says, smiling.

I remember the last time I talked to her. I was sneaking out of Calder's apartment in the middle of the night and she tried to stop me. My neck goes hot remembering some of the things I said to her.

But Lily's obviously trying to play nice, to bridge this gap between us, and honestly, the only thing holding me back is pride. This is my chance to make things right.

I look back up at Ward. His eyes are on me, and he gives me the smallest nod, leaving the decision to me. "Okay," I say.

Which is how, less than an hour later, Ward and I find ourselves in an enormous room at the Royal Suites Hotel.

After all the motels we've