#Chapter 126: Just Friends

As soon as the words leave my mouth, regret rushes through me, stretching out from my heart to every square inch of me, even my fingers and my toes. “We’re just friends…” I try to correct, but it comes out weaker than my previous statement. I might be in shock. The security men finally break me through the wall of reporters and help me to my front door. They stand behind me as I unlock and open it, then wish me a good evening, even though their expressions are somewhat grim. Working in the news industry and having heard what Hugo said, they likely know my error. I wasn’t supposed to say anything but no comment. I blew it. “Thank you,” I tell them. “Have a good night.” They wait until I close the door, then, through the peephole, I watch them walk back the way they came. The reporters don’t bother them as they re-enter the SUV. Then they all drive away. I wonder what Hugo is thinking. He must be disappointed by my weakness. On the surface, I suppose I didn’t say anything