Chapter 74: Cassidy

##Chapter 74: Cassidy

Book Two: Don't Leave

Even though I've arrived early for my lunch with Cole, I couldn't be more aware of Luke's presence beside me. It doesn't escape me that his friendship is the reason Cole pulled away in the first place. The last thing I want to do is exacerbate the situation by being seen with him.

From beneath my lashes, I glance around the open space but don't see Cole anywhere.

As much as it makes me feel like a crappy friend, I want this lunch to go smoothly.

I pause.

When he does the same, I say, "If you don't mind, I'm going to wait for Cole alone."

"Sure." His lips curve into a smile as he leans over and presses a kiss against my cheek. "Text me later and let me know how it goes."

Grateful for his understanding, I beam. This is the first time since Cole walked out of my dorm room that I've allowed myself to be hopeful that we could hash out our issues.

"I will."

After we say our goodbyes, he disappears, getting swallowed up by the thick crowd. The