Chapter 11
Valentine’s words are like a match to gasoline, igniting a flame inside me that I didn’t even know existed.
He’s right. I am curious to know what it feels like to be with someone like that. But with Valentine? Oh god..
“Take me home,” I demand, my voice shaky but firm. “Now”
Valentine laughs, a deep, rumbling sound that sends a shiver down my spine. “As you wish, princess,” he says, giving a mock bow. “Your chariot
awaits.”
He holds out his hand, and I hesitate for a second before placing my trembling fingers in his. His hand is warm, and as be leads me out of the ice cream parlor, my heart pounds in my chest. I have no idea what’s happening.
As we walk to his car, his hand stays wrapped around mine, his thumb tracing these maddening little circles on my skin. My mind races with a million thoughts and doubts, but one thing is clear–Tin in way over my head.
Valentine opens the passenger door for me, and I slide into the worn leather seat, still trying to get a grip on everything swirling around me.
“Don’t look like 1 just pronounced your death sentence, Princess,” he says lightly as he starts the car.
I roll my eyes, even though inside I feel like a mess. “Just drive, Valentine.”
As we
ve pull out of the parking lot, he glances at me with a mischievous glint in his eyes. “You know, I could take you back to my place instead. My
mom’s at work…
“Stop it!” I snap, though my heart skips a beat at the thought. “I am not going to sleep with you, you moron.”
Valentine nods, suddenly serious. “No, you’re right. My place is a complete shithole. Our first time should be somewhere nice. You deserve the best, my queen.”
I groan. “You are insane.”
“No, I’m telling the truth. I’m not rich like some of the other kids at school, you know. Is that a deal breaker?” He sounds almost concerned.
That vulnerability in his voice throws me off. Valentine always acts like he doesn’t care about anything, but right now! He seems like he actually cares about what I think. I don’t know how to respond.
“I don’t care about that,” I say softly, my usual sharpness facing.
He glances at me, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Good. I was hoping you’d say that.”
“If you’re so poor, how do you have a car?” I ask, trying to shift the conversation back to something less personal.
Valentine chuckles, shaking his head. “You think this old thing counts as a car?“He pats the dashboard. “Dear old Lucy is a hand–me–down. Barrly runs, but it gets me where I need to go
I glance around the car, noticing the worn–out seats and the faint smell of motor all. It’s not fancy, but it has character. I feel a little had for asking,
“You make it sound like you’re driving a death trap,” I mutter.
Valentine grins. “It’s not that bad. Just don’t expect air conditioning or heated seats.
I roll my eyes, but I can’t help the small smile tugging at my lips. “Whatever. It doesn’t matter what you drive. I still won’t sleep with you.”
nules
“he says confidently. “But let’s not argue about that now. Where do you live, anyway? Valentine’s voice is light, but I can see he’s serious.
“You will,” he say
I raise an eyebrow. “You’re just now asking where I live! What, were you planning to drive around all day?”
He shrugs, flashing that infuriating grin again. “Figured we’d get there eventually, Or, if you change your mind…”
“No!” I cut him off quickly, my cheeks beating up. “Just take a left up! here.”
Valentine chuckles but doesn’t push further. He follows my directions, and the tension between is simmers, just beneath the surface. I stare out the window, trying to focus on the passing streets instead of the strange feeling building inside me.
“Take the next right” I say quietly, pushing down the warmth that’s surting to creep into my chest.
“Got it,” he replies, his tone calm, the usual teasing gone.
1/2
Chapter 11
As we get closer to my house, nerves hit me lard. I’m almost home, away from Valentine and the confusing mess of emotions swirling around him. But part of me doesn’t want this to end just yet. What is wrong with met
“Pull over here.” I blurt out, a block away from my house. My tone is sharp, maybe too urgent, and Valentine looks at me, confused.
“Here?” he asks, glancing around the empty street.
I swallow hard, panie rising in my chest. I can’t let him see my house with all its cameras, security, and gates. No one at school knows how different my life is, and I want to keep it that way.
“Yeah, here’s fine.” I insist, my voice firm. “I’ll walk the rest of the way”
Valentine studies me for a moment, his brows furrowed. “Why? Embarrassed to be seen with
b me!”
“Yes,” Thburtout, cringing the second the word leaves my mouth. That came out way harsher than I meant it.
“Wow, Scar. You really know how to hit where it hurts,” he says, pouring like he’s actually offended
My heart skips at his reaction. I didn’t mean i like that; I just don’t want him asking questions about my life. “I didn’t mean it like that,” I mutter “It’s complicated.”
His eyes soften, though I can still see the hurt in them. He leans back, running a hand through his hair. “It’s fine. I’m glad I got to spend time with you. Can I at least get a goodbye kisa?”
My heart flips at his request. A goodbye kiss My stomach twists, but not in disgust. I’m so confused.
“Are you serious?” I ask, trying to sound annoyed, but my voice comes out softer than I intend
Valentine grins, but there’s no cocky edge to it this time. “Come on, Scar. It’s just a kiss. You might even like it.”
I roll my eyes, but my pulse quickens. I’m not sure if I can handle being any closer to him, especially after seeing this side of him. Vulnerable. Real
“Valentine,” I start, my tone warning, but even I’m not sure what I’m warning him–or myself–about
He raises his hands in surrender, his expression soft. “Alright, no kiss. I get it.”
There’s a bear of silence. Neither of us moves.
And then, before I even realize what I’m doing, 1 lean over and kiss him on the check.
The moment my lips brush against his skin, warmth spreads through me. It’s quick, barely more than a soft press, but it leaves a tingle on my lips. I pull back immediately, my heart racing, unsure why I just did that.
“There. I kissed you.” I say quickly, fumbling with the door handle. “Now stop bothering me at school”
And before he can say anything. I’m out of the car.
- r. practically running down the street.
AD
