HAYLEY
Like a contagious flu, the anger Shane exudes infects me. My chest tightens as I watch Axel and Ivy work together seamlessly, moving materials along their table as they converse in low voices.
They make a great team. And I hate it.
For Christ's sakes, why can't I let go of Axel? I had always thought lovesick characters from silly romcoms who pined for a love interest were unbearably naive.
But isn't that what I've become right now?
Alright, Hayley. Get it together. Right this moment. No more reckless feelings. No more fanciful ideas. No more—s**t.
Axel lifts his gaze to mine, and my brain practically fries along with whatever resolutions I was making seconds ago. Heat races up my lab coat and all the way to my face, singeing my cheeks.
Look away. I say the words in my h
