Serena Rosette
The moment I stepped away from Mason and walked back to my table, a million thoughts swirled in my mind. I couldn’t focus on anything but the sound of his voice still echoing in my head.
What had I done? Why did I say yes?
I barely registered Austin’s presence as I sat down, my fingers gripping the edge of my notebook as if grounding myself. The weight of Mason’s invitation lingered, and I couldn’t understand why I had agreed. I had spent ten days keeping my distance, avoiding anything that could pull me back into his orbit. I had convinced myself that I was strong enough to resist. But here I was, saying yes to a dinner invitation. Why had I done that?
The question gnawed at me. I had been careful. I had kept my distance. I hadn’t let myself think about him—at least, no
