I last until almost midnight before I need water.
The house is quiet. My parents’ door is closed. Alex’s parents are in the larger guest suite at the end of the hall. The only light comes from the small lamp I left on in my room and the thin strip of gold under Alex’s door directly across from mine.
I tell myself I’m just thirsty. That I’m not listening for movement on the other side of that door. That the cross around my neck still means something.
I open my door as quietly as possible.
Alex’s opens at the exact same time.
He’s leaning against the frame like he’s been waiting, barefoot, black T-shirt clinging to his chest, dark sweatpants sitting low on his hips. The hallway is narrow. Too narrow. The only way to the stairs is past him.
I freeze.
He doesn’t smile this time. He just
