31

CASSY

Teddy smiled as he slowly traced his fingers up and down my spine. I was in bliss, total bliss.

I tried to not think about how Phin likely facilitated this moment between us.

Sitting on the porch earlier, I watched Teddy drive away, kicking up water and mud everywhere. Seeing his truck disappear into the distance left a hollow feeling in my chest. I wrapped my arms around my knees, trying to make sense of everything. The argument had taken a toll on both of us, and I was left sitting here with Phin.

Phin was still on the porch, sprawled out on the swing, looking worse for wear. He was clearly still drunk from earlier, but his usual bravado was tinged with a hint of vulnerability.

"Ya know, Cassy, he's not gonna let this go easy," Phin slurred, his words heavy and slow.

I sighed, looking over at him. "I know, Phin. But I can't just give up who I am."

Phin laughed bitterly. "You think any of us give a damn about who we are? We're all just playin' roles, darlin'."

"Maybe," I ad