Chapter 27

** Parker’s POV ** I follow Remy through the back door and into the morning chill. The sun is over the treetops, casting shadows across the grass, but the warmth hasn’t reached us yet. Remy’s pacing along the tree line, his jaw tight, hands shoved into the pockets of his hoodie like he’s trying to hold himself together. He doesn’t look at me when I stop beside him. He just stares out toward the forest like it might offer him an escape. “You okay?” I ask. He laughs bitterly. “Why wouldn’t I be?” I shrug, giving him time to decide if he wants to talk. The silence is brief before Remy exhales and shakes his head. “I can’t do this anymore, Parker. I can’t keep pretending I’m fine when I’m not.” “I know,” I say softly. His eyes finally meet mine. They’re bloodshot, like he’s barely slept. “Do you?” “Yes, I’ve known for a while.” His shoulders stiffen. “Known what?” “That you’re in love with him.” He blinks, then swallows hard, his voice cracking as he says, “I never meant for it to happen.”