Chapter 60: Catching Flights and Feelings
Phoebe’s voice broke through the restless chatter that had returned at the yard. "What took you so long?" she asked, eyes twinkling with mock impatience.
Keith grinned, elbowing Craig lightly. "I was trying to convince Mr. Too Cool For School over here to join us for the trip."
Craig responded with a nonchalant shrug, though his expression was anything but relaxed.
Before anyone could answer, Adriana slipped behind Craig, her arms wrapping around his waist. She pressed a soft kiss to his neck, her breath warm against his skin. "I did most of the convincing," she whispered, voice low and teasing.
Phoebe waved her hand impatiently. "Yeah, yeah, come on guys, they’re boarding."
But Merlina didn’t follow. She couldn’t. A sudden wave of nausea twisted her stomach as she watched the group’s easy banter. Her chest felt tight, the jealousy gnawing at her more than she expected.
She drifted away and settled beside Louis, who was already flanked by Jay and Mia. Taking the seat next to them, she sank into the cushion, burying her emotions in the soft vibration of the moving bus.
The ride to the airport stretched on, taillights and streetlamps dissolving into streaks of color. Merlina kept close to Louis, thankful for the distraction his presence offered, even if she couldn’t shake the unease that settled in her gut.
At the airport, the group finally reunited. Phoebe’s eyes landed on Merlina almost immediately, and the surprise turned to irritation.
"Merlina?! Where have you been? I didn’t even notice you weren’t next to me!" Phoebe’s voice was sharp but laced with concern.
Merlina forced a smile, voice low. "We got lost in the crowd." She let Phoebe slip her arm through hers. The closeness was comforting, a small island of safety amid the swirl of strangers.