Payback Season — Episode 10

Ignoring calls, ghosting texts, just to shake me off. It finally clicked. My defense crumbled, my voice softening. No, I don't hate you.

You were gone when I woke up. I thought you left. My phone died. I swear I wasn't ghosting you.

He arched an eyebrow, clearly caught off guard. I went out to grab you breakfast this morning. He had texted me, but my dead phone missed him. So, you're going to make this right, aren't you?

Finn emphasized those last words, saying no wasn't an option. He'd tear me apart right here. I nodded like I was walking to my execution. Finally, Finn let go of the desk.

I hopped down, heading for the door. Wait. His voice stopped me. I don't want you thinking this is just about the dare.

Let me be clear. I like you. I've liked you for a really long time. I froze.

I don't even remember how we left that room. The campus golden boy, crushing on me. I had chased Dylan for three agonizing years just to get a passing glance. Why would he ever want a plain nerd like me?

I couldn't process it, so I just stopped trying. Either way, after his confession we were official. But honestly, hanging out with him felt a little stiff. Or maybe that was just me.

Until a bizarre incident shattered that awkwardness for good. A warning post had gone viral on the campus forum. A heavyset flasher was prowling near campus. He got off on flashing girls, feeding on their panicked screams.

screams. Unfortunately, I ran right into him. I took a deserted shortcut back from the library.