CHAPTER 22

RIVER LAVERNE

I was trying to leave the club discreetly, but then I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned around to see Caleb looking at me with those intense eyes. "Hey, where are you going?" he asked.

"I'm leaving," I replied, trying to hide my embarrassment.

Caleb stepped closer, blocking my way. "Can we talk for a minute?"

I sighed and nodded, knowing that there was no way I could escape him. We walked outside to the cool night air, and Caleb put his hands on my shoulders.

"Look, I know what just happened between us was unexpected, but I don't regret it," he said, looking at me intensely. "I think there's something between us, River. Something real."

I shook my head, trying to clear my mind. "You don't understand, Caleb. I'm not over my ex-boyfriend. I shouldn't have even been here tonight."

Caleb's expression softened, and he took a step back. "I'm sorry, I didn't know. But please, let me make it up to you. Let me take you out on a date. Just one date, and if you're still not inte