Page 50 of Only Ever You

“Nope, I’m being honest.” He tilts his head to the side. “And you should’ve told Michael.”

“No, and I don’t plan to.” I narrow my eyes at him. “And you’re not going to tell him either. This is my business. No one else’s.”

“But Isla, he doesn’t⁠—”

I press a finger to his mouth, successfully shutting him up. “I’m leaving for Boston after winter break. It’s better if he doesn’t know about my feelings. It’s better for me.”

His eyes go wide, and he bats my hand away. “What are you talking about? What do you mean you’re leaving for Boston?”

“Just what I said.” I shrug, picking at my nail. “Elena is moving to Boston, and I’m going with her. It’s what’s best for my career.”

He blinks, his jaw going slack. “Your parents are okay with you moving to Boston alone?”

“They’re from Boston. And I won’t be alone. I’ll live with my dad’s parents, and my mom’s family is there too.”

“Does…does Michael know?”

I lift a shoulder. “I told him it was a possibility, but we haven’t talked in a while.”

“So he doesn’t know.” Ash nods, his lips pressed together in a hard line. “And you don’t want him to know you like him because you’re moving away.”

“Yes. Please, Ash. Don’t tell him anything.”

With a huff, he rakes his hand through his blond hair. “Fuck, Isla, you’re putting me in an impossible position.”

“Ash, please.”

“Fine.” He sighs, his shoulders sinking. “I promise I won’t tell him, even though I don’t like it.”

“Thank you.” I give him a small smile. “I’m gonna text my dad. I think I’m ready to go home.”

“Damn. This was your first school dance. It was supposed to be a fun night. I’m sorry it got ruined.”

“It’s okay. Honestly, I wish I’d stayed home.”

I unlock my phone again and type out a message to my dad.

Me:

Can you please pick me up?

Dad:

Why so early?

Me:

I want to go home

Dad:

did your date do something that bothers you?

Me:

No, Cade’s been nothing but nice. I’m just tired

Dad: