“Do you hate me?”

Lydia startled at the question. 

She abruptly halted her walk and looked at Ola. 

The passersby flowed around them like a thick compact matter. 

“What even is this question about?” Lydia blurted, unable to hold back the statement because of surprise.

“I am forcing you to go with me,” Ola sighed with a shrug. 

She suddenly looked very small. 

Lydia felt the sudden fear of losing her in the crowd.

 “You will see Byron there. I don’t want you to be hurt,” she added finally.

“You are not forcing me,” Lydia shook her head. She held Ola’s hand and resumed their walk. 

“I literally offered to...