I stood up and made an excuse about going to the restroom. It was the best I could come up with at the moment. Kayla, looking a little uncertain, shifted to a more upright position on the bench as I passed by her. I could swear I heard Courtney chuckling as I left the room, but I wasn't certain that it was about what had just transpired. Fuck it. Let them think I'm just being shy and awkward. Whatever got me out of that situation.

I made my way to the bathroom and debated my options while I washed my hands for no other reason than to buy time. I...