RUBI
I stood outside Hector’s door, staring at the glossy dark wood as if it held all the answers I didn’t want to admit I was seeking.
I could turn back now. Walk away. Pretend this was never my plan. But it was. Mia asked me to talk to him, and I promised her I would. That’s what good friends do.
That’s the only reason I’m here.
Really, Rubi? Is that the story we’re going with? That it’s all for Mia?
I crossed my arms and let out a breath. “No, of course not,” I whispered to myself, cheeks heating up in shame. “I only came here for Mia. That’s all.”
Yeah, right.
I forced myself to lift my hand and knock—three quick taps. Nothing. I waited, heartbeat stuttering.
Maybe he’s not in?
I knocked again, louder this time, fidgeting with the hem of my sweater.
Still nothing.
I was abou
