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53. Engaged

Author: Sam Shelly
last update Last Updated: 2025-02-28 04:23:15

Steph’s Pov

My phone buzzed in my pocket, the sudden vibration jolting me out of my spiraling thoughts.

I pulled it out with trembling fingers, my breath catching when I saw the name flashing on the screen.

Beck.

Shit.

I had almost forgotten about the meetup.

Swiping at the tears on my cheeks, I inhaled sharply, willing myself to pull it together. My heart was still racing, my mind a tangled mess of emotions, but I couldn’t let Beck hear any of it.

I sniffed, clearing my throat before pressing the answer button. "Yep, I’m coming—just traffic…" My voice wavered slightly, but I forced it to stay steady.

There was a brief pause on the other end, and for a second, I thought maybe he heard something in my tone.

"Alright," Beck said finally. "You good?"

"Yeah," I lied, squeezing my eyes shut as I rubbed a hand over my face. "Just running a little late."

Another pause.

"Okay. See you soon."

"See you."

I ended the call, exhaling slowly as I stuffed my phone back into my pocket.

I had to pull
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