Chapter 38

• Lila
• Breakfast had passed in a blur after Caden’s departure, leaving me feeling oddly empty. I watched him walk out, that tense set of his shoulders sending a thrill of excitement through me. I knew I’d gotten under his skin, and there was something undeniably satisfying about it. But as much as I wanted to bask in the success of my little game, I couldn’t help but feel uneasy about what was to come.
• Joan and Ronan had already disappeared into the garden, leaving me alone at the table with my thoughts swirling around. A part of me knew I should feel guilty for roping Caden into this, but another part of me, the reckless, impulsive part was thrilled. I grabbed my phone, needing a distraction, and dialed Emily’s number.