Chapter 27: Chapter 27

"Oh, my God, is that a real tattoo?" Jayden flirts, her voice echoing through the store.

I grab the beer and try to shove it down my shirt. After failing miserably, I head toward the exit quickly, turning my back toward Jayden and the short store clerk when I pass. I spot a package of pink snowball cakes and grab one on my way out.

I step across the street and wait for Jayden to leave the store. As soon as she walks out, she spots me leaning against the wall and runs toward me with a huge grin.

"Run! Go!" she squeals. I hold my hands against my chest to keep the beer from slipping out and sprint.

I laugh so hard I can barely keep up. I trip over my feet and nearly wipe out from giggling so hard. I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard it hurt.

I stop two blocks away to catch my breath.

"Did you get it?" Jayden huffs, out of breath. I glare at her mock-offense. Growing up in care, stealing is second-nature. You do it to live. Sometimes you steal for fun, but not often.