Page 20 of What They'll Say About Us

"I haven't spoken to my aunt in several months. And when we talk, we don't usually discuss people from my past. I left that behind when I moved to New York."

"It was a little sad that we didn't keep in touch, Tessa. But I guess that started even before you moved. Once you got into the theater productions, you were never really around."

"I was a little obsessed," I admitted, feeling bad that I'd made her sad. I'd always liked Rachel, and she had been a good friend to me in my sophomore year. We just hadn't had the same interests, and back then my only interests were the theater and Liam.

"Well, it's nice to reconnect, even though I wish it wasn't because of Paige." Rachel paused. "Is Liam on your list, too?"

"I already spoke to him. He doesn't know anything."

"How was that conversation?"

"Awkward," I admitted.

"I went to his club a few weeks ago. He's still very attractive."

"I noticed. But that ship sailed before I even got on the plane to New York."

"Too bad. From what I could see back then, it seemed like he was good for you."

"Apparently, I wasn't good for him."

"Well, college relationships rarely last. I'd better get back to work."

"Thanks for the first aid and the chat."

"Of course. If I can help in any way, let me know. My number is the same as when I was in college. You might still have it."

"I probably do. I also have the same number."

"Then you can call me directly if you need anything. Are you still leaving tomorrow?"

"I'm not sure. I have to talk to my friends."

"I think the hotel is booked up. You should check with the front desk sooner rather than later."

"I'll do that tonight."

"Good luck."

As she left, I stretched out my leg, wincing a little at the pain, but grateful that my injuries hadn't been worse. Morgan and Cassidy walked into the suite a moment later, and as soon as they saw my bandaged leg, the questions rang out.

I held up a hand as they sat down across from me. "First, I'm fine. I was almost hit by a red-light runner on my way back from seeing Liam. It happened down the street. I have a few bruises and scrapes, but that's it."

"A red-light runner?" Cassidy echoed with a frown. "This is not good, Tessa. Are you sure it was an accident?"

"I've been trying not to let my mind go in another direction," I said. "A policeman stopped and took my information. He said he'd look into it, but I'm sure it's not a high priority."

"I'm glad you're not hurt," Morgan said. "Or at least, not badly hurt. Where did you get the first-aid kit?"

"Rachel, my old friend, who works as the concierge saw me come in bleeding and brought the kit up here and bandaged my knee."

"That was nice."

"We had a somewhat informative chat, too. She told me some of the people from Paige's life who are still in Chicago. That was helpful."

"That's good. What about Liam?" Cassidy asked. "How did that go?"

"Even worse than I expected. He was cold and angry. He made it clear that he wanted me to leave town, to drop the investigation, to mind my own business. His reaction felt a little over-the-top," I said, not quite sure how to describe it. "We didn't part on a great note, but it has been nine years. I didn't think everything would feel so raw after all this time."