Chapter 34

The next few days passed in a blur of books and me working my ass for my father’s project. Archer hadn’t shown up at the project site again. I knew it was because of what my father did, but that didn’t make it any easier to bear.

School started again, and I found myself hoping, wishing, that I might see him. I missed him so much. Ever since that incredible night of dancing and drinking in his world, we hadn’t crossed paths.

He doesn’t even answer my texts and calls.

As I stepped onto the school grounds, I dialed his number for what felt like the hundredth time. But, like every other time, it ended with his voicemail.

My heart sank as I shoved my phone back into my pocket.

The weird looks from my classmates didn’t help. Their eyes were on me, some filled with shock, others with dread, and a few... with pity. I could feel the weight of their stares, their whispers following me like shadows.

“Hey, you okay?” a girl I didn’t recognize asked.

“What? Of course, I am!” I snapped, confusion