Chapter 44: Chapter forty four

Evan helped her sit down, oblivious to the emotional turmoil she was in. "I'm glad you're okay, Alina," he said softly, squeezing her hand.

Alina forced a smile, but her thoughts were elsewhere, fixated on Marcus and the almost-kiss that had slipped away. She sighed inwardly, wondering how she had gotten herself into such a complicated situation.

For the rest of the day, Evan stayed glued to her, without giving her a single moment to meet up with Marcus again.

The soft rustle of the tent fabric accompanied the quiet evening. Alina sat cross-legged on her sleeping bag, her eyes filled with worry as she looked at Lizzy, who was lying down, staring at the tent's ceiling.

"So, Lizzy," Alina began, her voice hesitant, "I need to tell you what happened between Marcus and me this afternoon."

Lizzy turned her head, giving Alina her full attention. "What happened?"