Chapter 13: Behind the Gym

[Lily]

Call it a moment of weakness or maybe a chemical reaction that caused a rush of stupid lust, but I met Atticus behind the gym. It was a stupid move, since again, it is a place where nobody can see us. Anything can happen behind the gym, which is why it is such a popular rendezvous for lovers.

Atticus and I are not lovers. Not even close. And we never will be as long as Evie is breathing down our necks and I manage to maintain even the smallest amount of self-respect.

But Atticus, to his credit, is a perfect gentleman.

“Listen,” he begins his apology. “I’m sorry you had to see that thing between Evie and me. That wasn’t my idea.” He shyly rubs the back of his neck, a nervous trait that I have come to realize signifies discomfort at telling an awkward truth. He chose to wear the traditional school uniform today with the jacket and tie and crisply pressed trousers and as he talks he also fiddles with his tie, which is refusing to stay in place.

“Stop,” I order him. The tie