Chapter 5

My heart jumped violently, sensing trouble.

"What is it, Chloe?"

I pretended nonchalance, as if making casual conversation.

"Tyler, let's meet."

My brow furrowed in confusion, though I could guess the reason.

I played dumb, feigning innocence. "Whatever it is, we can discuss it over the phone."

Chloe laughed coldly. "Do you really think this is something to discuss over the phone?"

I swallowed hard, glancing down at the pastry in my hand, instinctively searching for an excuse.

"Another day, okay? Today isn't good."

Her tone was adamant, insisting on meeting now.

"Right now. Or I'll go to Isabella."

She was threatening me with Isabella!

Anger flared, but I forced it down, knowing she had leverage over me.

Nothing happened last night anyway.

Fine. Keep calm and carry on.

"Where?"

She gave me an address to a deserted park on the outskirts of town.

She told me to follow a narrow path into the woods, where she would be waiting.

What was she up to, being so secretive?

I grumbled inwardly.

Entering the dense forest, a faint, pleasant fragrance filled the air, soothing and invigorating.

After circling several times without seeing anyone, a voice suddenly came from behind.

"You're here."

I jumped, turning to see a figure that had appeared out of nowhere. It was Chloe.

"What do you want to say that required bringing me here?"

Chloe wore a distant, icy smile.

"About last night. How are you going to explain it to Isabella?"

For some reason, I felt restless and agitated.

"I acted on impulse. Let's pretend it never happened. I'll make it up to you..."

Chloe scoffed. "Make it up to me how?"

As I racked my brain for a solution, I missed her cunning expression.

Her eyes shifted to the cake in my hand, and she swiftly snatched it away.

"How about this in exchange?"

Before I could react, it was gone.

"Not that..."

The restlessness grew stronger. My body felt weak and uncomfortable, my words fading on my lips.

Finally, I realized something was wrong.

What was happening to me?

Why did my body feel like it was on fire?

I blinked, trying to clear my mind, but the desire only burned brighter like wildfire.

I leaned against a tree, using its cool surface to soothe the strange heat within.

Chloe smiled triumphantly, stepping closer.

"Tyler, what's wrong? Are you hot?"

Then, while I was struggling, she wrapped her arms around my waist and buried her face against me.

Every hair on my body stood on end. I tried to push her away but had no strength left. My breathing grew ragged.

"Chloe, what are you doing..."

My hands trembled uncontrollably. Sweat dripped from my forehead.

She pressed further, unzipping my jacket and pulling it off.