Collin stood, staring at my face for the longest time. “What?â€? I whispered. I was so happy I could get words out but he didn’t seem to feel the same.

“Who was that guy?â€? I didn’t answer. “Fine, forget it, don’t tell me. But Allie, I … I really need to talk to you.â€?

“No … no.â€? I murmured silently but he continued like I hadn’t spoken.

“It’s important. Will you meet me at our secret spot later or maybe tomorrow. Whichever is better; I’d like to talk to you without your little protector.â€?

“Protector?â€? I whispered.

“No, no! I didn’t mean it like that. I meant, just alone, you know. I’m not going to do anything, I’m better I swear.â€? He wasn’t convincing.

“I don’t think that’s the best idea, Collin.â€? My voice broke when I said his name and he heard that. He heard that I still had something inside of me for him. And he always used his advantages against me because they were always great.