Chapter 29

Caleb let out an exaggerated sigh, eyes rolling like he was putting on a show. “Come on, Dari. Seriously? Still hung up on her? Man, you’re better than this.” Darius’s jaw clenched tight, arms crossed, standing firm like a wall in the doorway. He could smell Caleb’s nerves — that unmistakable scent of panic — but he stayed put. “You dug your own hole, Caleb. And I’m not spending a single night with a bullseye because you couldn’t keep your mouth shut.” Caleb, never one to appreciate a locked door—or locked hearts—tried to play the old card: mischief and brotherly loyalty. He slung an arm around Darius’s shoulders, forcing a grin. “Hey, I was only trying to help. You know, loosen things up.” Darius shrugged him off. “This isn’t you helping. You’re not spending the night here.” Caleb’s mouth fell open. “Oh, come on! Have a heart, man. You seriously won’t back up your best friend? I did it for you!” Darius’s eyes remained glacial. “You did it because it amused you. You always have.” Caleb