Chapter 26 - I'm not your date

"This is not the way home," I say, looking at Liam, who is driving away from our neighborhood.

"I know," he says simply and keeps on driving.

"You said we were going home," I state, and he nods. "Then why are we pulling into a coffee shop parking lot?" I ask when the car comes to a stop.

"Because we're going to get some food first," he says, opening the door. He gets out, walks to my side of the car, and then opens the door.

"I don't want to have coffee with you," I say, taking my book bag and getting out of the car. He swiftly takes the bag from me and then starts walking away.

I stand there for a moment, watching him stride towards the entrance of the coffee shop with my bag slung over his shoulder. There's a stubborn set to his jaw, a look I’ve come to recognize over the years. Sighing, I follow him, my feet dragging as I go.

Inside, the air is cool, and the rich aroma of coffee beans fills the space. It's cozy, with warm lighting and plush chairs that invite you to stay a while. L