Students hurried past us, most giving us a wide berth, though I could feel their stares and whispers. The hallway was clearing as people rushed to their classes, but I couldn't make myself move. My legs felt rooted to the spot, trapped in this confrontation I'd been avoiding for six years.
"That's not what I meant," Kyle said, his voice dropping lower. "I meant that I never thought you had a crush on Marcus. I was jealous of how much you missed your parents. How much you loved them. It was stupid and childish and cruel."
I laughed, a harsh sound that felt like it was being ripped from my throat. "You know what? I don't care anymore. Believe whatever you want. Tell yourself whatever story helps you sleep at night."
I turned to leave, but Kyle caught my wrist, his touch sending an electri
