6. Mack

Chapter 6

Mack

I thought it was the right thing to say. I know it's the right thing to do. But Isabelle's face has fallen, and nothing feels right after all.

Why did I tell her I missed her, too? That slip necessitated a rapid reassessment. A new plan, on the fly. And that's something I have always excelled at. I can pivot without remorse. I'm famous for it.

But fuck, I'm filled with remorse right now.

I don't blame her for confessing that she missed me. She told me she's unfailingly honest, and I love that about her.

But I know better. I could have lied to her, and I needed to, for her own sake.

Her voice wavers as she resumes reading from her notes. I nod along, and give her some corrective notes, but most of my attention is consumed by her body language.

Her tight shoulders, her firm jaw. The distance in her gaze and the anxious way she tugs at her kilt.

I'm fucking this up.

I'm hurting my girl, and that's unforgivable.