Chapter 19 He looked exhausted , with dark circles under his eyes and his usually perfect hair a mess like he hadnt slept in days .
Aiden ? What are you doing in California ? Standing there in his East Coast winter coat , he looked completely out of place among the palm trees and students in t shirts .
Wanted to see your school .
See how youre doing out here .
His voice was rough , like hed been practicing this moment but still wasnt ready .
I kept my tone deliberately light , casual .
Its amazing here ! The food scene is incredible they have these amazing fusion restaurants downtown .
You should definitely check them out while youre in town .
He shifted uncomfortably , running a hand through his disheveled hair .
Cant you … show me around ? Just once ? For old times sake ? Before I could figure out how to let him down gently , another voice cut in .
Sorry , man , but shes already got plans .
Youll have to get in line .
Jake appeared beside me , positioning himself protectively between us , his easy California confidence a stark contrast to Aidens intense energy .
The tension crackled as they sized each other up Jake with his sun bleached hair and laid back vibe , Aiden with his expensive wool coat and prep school posture .
East Coast old money meeting West Coast new world .
You came back to campus early for him ? Aidens voice had an edge I couldnt quite place .
Jealousy ? Hurt ? After all these years of him taking me for granted , it was almost funny .
I saw no reason to explain myself anymore .
That part of our story was over .
Sorry , Aiden , but weve got reservations .
Lets go , Jake .
I nudged Jake , who seemed reluctant to move , still locked in some unspoken guy code standoff .
Come on , you promised to take me to that amazing farm to table place in wine country , remember ? Its a long drive , and I heard their sunset view is incredible .
Jake finally let me pull him away , but not before shooting one last challenging look at Aiden the kind that clearly said shes moved on .
At the crosswalk , I couldnt help glancing back .
Aiden stood alone at the gates , a shadow under the 17:42 Backup Girl No More : Adios To My V Card and My First Love 14.1 % Chapter 19 palm trees , looking more lost than Id ever seen him .
The golden boy whod always had everything suddenly realizing some things couldnt be won back with a charming smile .
For a moment , my heart twisted with an old , familiar ache .
Then the light changed , and I stepped forward into my new life , leaving the past where it belonged .
My Card and My First Love
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