Chapter 64

He closed his eyes tight and wished he could turn back time. He’d been so, so happy—

No. That wasn’t for him. One more day of work, and he’d plan his escape, run again.

He hadn’t had to pretend to be happy for months, but he hadn’t forgotten how. He made his way into the kitchen, put on his apron, and went to work.

Scooter came in, kissed his cheek. God, Scooter’s smile was so genuine. Andy wanted to trust it, but hedidn’t dare. He smiled back, teased, flicked soapy water. Scooter left, went out to talk to customers,and Andy waited until Jason had turned back to the grill to let his shoulders sag in relief.

A warm hand on his shoulder, small. “Andrushka? Are you all right?”

“Of course,” he responded quickly, but he was aware of her gaze on him, doubting. Kat was…hard to fool.

She was his friend.…my best friend…She might help him—

No. He’d taken enough from her. And she had been Scooter’s friend first; she would try to defend him. Might even stop Andy from leaving.