TESSA
I couldn't refuse Mrs. Victoria.
Though I wanted to stay home and eat snacks, I practically dragged myself out of bed and got ready. Mrs. Victoria wouldn't stop calling, making sure I didn't chicken out.
I left in a hurry, the red satin of my dress clung to my skin like a second layer, the hue catching the fading evening light. Red was the only motivation I had left for confidence.
Stepping out of my house, I started walking slowly, my heels clicking tick-tock rhythm. As I reached near the café, my steps slowed, a familiar shadow leaning against the wall.
Kyle Maxwell.
He was flicking a lighter, the flame glowing on his sharp jawline before he brought it to the cigarette between his lips. A thin plume of grey smoke spiraled into the air, dancing around his head like a halo of
