POV: Harper

“Liam,” I finally manage, my words sounding foreign to me.

“I had no idea you felt this way. I thought we were just... close friends. I never wanted to hurt you, I promise. I would have given you a chance if you had come to me before Ethan did.” I lied through my teeth. I have never liked him that way and I would probably have refused his request even if Ethan was not in the picture at that point in my life. His expression softens, vulnerability mingling with hope. The trust I see in his eyes made me feel so guilty about all this as if it...