#Chapter 300: Slipping Away

Abby As Karl and I head wordlessly back into the pub, I’m torn between relief and a whirlwind of emotions. The warmth of the crowded room envelopes us, a stark contrast to the cold intimacy of the alley. The lively chatter and laughter of the patrons are soothing to my ears, but my mind is still racing. Karl and I don’t say a word to each other as we head down the narrow hallway, but I don’t think we need to. I can feel his presence behind me, and I know he’s watching me. He’s probably confused, just like I am. And maybe that’s okay. But keeping something like this from my best friend—no, not just keeping it from her, but rather lying to her completely—isn’t right. It’s not right at all, and I feel like the worst friend imaginable in my current drunken state. I realize that keeping this secret from Chloe is just going to end up in flames, but I feel trapped. It doesn’t feel like it’s the right time to reveal what’s happening with Karl and me. Hell, maybe there never will