Chapter 16
Lily's POV.
I pasted a smile on my face, even though my chest felt heavy with the sting of Mark’s words. Every time I thought tonight was going to go well, something reminded me that perfect was impossible.
The soft purple blossoms looked gorgeous under the restaurant’s chandelier light, and his grin was as warm as the buttered bread we’d just tasted.
“Are you okay?” Mark asked, reaching across the table to brush my hand with his fingertips. His expression was innocent and hopeful. “Sorry if I was harsh earlier. You know I didn’t mean it that way.”
I gave a tight nod and squeezed his fingers gently. “It’s fine. Really.”
The conversation shifted to lighter things, homework, mutual friends, funny things that happened in class. By the time we were waiting for the desserts, my
