I had three simple rules: 1. Never remove the hood and mask. 2. Don’t attract attention. 3. Follow rule one and two at all costs. Simple, right? Well, I followed them religiously—until Jason came along and shattered them all. I didn’t want anyone to know my identity. I just wanted to stay in the shadows, finish school, and disappear. But no, the stupid jock had to get in my way, and now my peaceful, hidden life is in ruins. I didn’t mean to embarrass the school’s golden boy. His name? Jason. He’s the son of the country’s richest CEO. Ironically, I chose this place to hide from my own father, the man I’m trying to escape. I look too much like him, and if anyone made the connection, my cover would be blown. Hence, the hood and mask I wear every single day. But now, instead of just hiding from my father, I have to watch out for Jason, too. He’s vowed to make my life miserable. I still can’t figure out his obsession with me—one minute he’s humiliating me in front of everyone, and the next he’s trying to kiss me behind the bleachers.
Max POV:
I shouldn't have thought it. I shouldn't have let that suspicion creep into my mind, shouldn't have voiced it to Jason and Dylan, and definitely shouldn't have laughed about it like it was some far-fetched joke. Because now, right in front of me, it feels like that crazy thought is slapping me in the face.
Ella—the girl who'd practically built a reputation on being tough and self-sufficient—was sitting with some older guy in a suit that probably cost more than my car, looking all… close with him. Like, sweet. Her eyes were bright, like she was talking to someone she trusted, someone she knew well. And I just… I couldn't believe it.