10
MAY THREE YEARS EARLIER
Lexi crept back into the beach house just before sunrise. She and Jack had sat together all night, peacefully enjoying each other’s company. Their attempt at friendship had been mildly successful. Lexi was glad that they had resisted kissing again. They had gone over the line, but it was so incredibly mild compared to their normal impulsive demeanor, neither of them had complained.
They had ended the night with a long hug at the base of the stairs. Both were being cautious, and neither wanted to be caught together like that. She checked to see that the coast was clear and then slunk across the den and into the bedroom. Being extra careful not to wake Sandy up, Lexi gently twisted the handle and secured it into place. When she turned around, she realized all ef
