Chapter One Hundred And Fifty Three

I find a space and settle in, pulling out my headphones and plugging them in. As the music starts, it helps calm my racing heart a bit.

I wonder if things will be awkward between Josh and me now. His new behavior is confusing, especially when my whole body is still craving his touch.

Relaxing back into my seat, I glance at him frequently, but he never turns to look at me. It feels like this is going to be a hell of a ride.

I try to focus on the music, letting the rhythm fill the silence between us, but it’s hard to ignore the tension. My eyes keep drifting back to Josh, hoping for any sign that he might look my way. But he stays engrossed in his tablet, completely detached.

I take a deep breath, forcing myself to look away and focus on the window. The clouds outside blur as we ascend, and I try to clear my mind, but it’s no use.

This is going to be a long, torturous ride, I think to myself, trying to shake off the ache in my chest.

I don't think I've ever been in a situation where I