Lily's heart pounded in her chest, but she forced herself to look away, pretending to focus on something—anything—other than the man standing in front of her.
She had made up her mind. She didn't want this kind of attention. Not here. Not like this.
The spotlight, the whispers, the judgment—it wasn't her scene.
Ross raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable at first.
Then he let out a quiet chuckle, one without warmth.
"Oh?" he said, voice low and laced with amusement. "That's what you say after that kiss?"
His tone shifted, colder now.
"Fine then," he said, shrugging casually. "This was your first—and your last—chance."
He turned slightly, already walking away as he added, "Since you're clearly not interested, I can live with that. Just know this, Lily: you won't get another shot at me. Not even if you kneel and beg in front of everyone afterward."
Gasps echoed around the room. A few girls covered their mouths.
