CHAPTER 31
Falling Hard
ARIENNE CALLOWAY
Jenni and my mom got out first, stretching their legs after the long ride. Lily practically launched herself out of the car, all excited about the camping trip, while Zayn's parents stepped out next.
That left me.
Still stuck.
Because guess who was sitting at the entrance, blocking my way?
Zayn.
He leaned back against the seat, arms crossed, making absolutely no effort to move. His expression? Amused as hell.
I huffed, shifting in my seat. "Are you serious right now?"
He raised an eyebrow. "What?"
"You're blocking the way."
"And?"
I narrowed my eyes at him. Oh, he was enjoying this way too much.
I sighed dramatically. "Fine. If you don't move, I'll climb over you again."
That got his attention.
His smirk faltered slightly, eyes flickering with something unreadable.
I shrugged, playing innocent. "You didn't seem to mind the first time. Maybe I should justâ" I lifted my leg slightly, as if I really was about to do it.
Zayn's jaw clenched, but before I could actually make my move, he sighed and finally shifted out of the way.
"That's what I thought," I muttered under my breath as I scooted toward the door.
One problem, though.
This car was way taller than I expected.
I swung my legs over the edge, only to realizeâyeah, my feet weren't reaching the ground.
Great. Just great.
I hesitated, glancing down. Was it worth the risk of jumping and landing straight on my face?
Apparently, Zayn picked up on my struggle because his voice came, laced with amusement. "What now?"
I clenched my jaw. "Nothing."
He tilted his head, watching me. Then, before I could even react, he grabbed my wrist and tugged me forward just enough for my feet to finally touch the ground.
It was so unexpected that I nearly stumbled.
I looked up, eyes meeting his.
For a second, neither of us spoke.
Then he smirked. "Try not to trip, shorty."
I glared. "Try not to be annoying."
His smirk only widened.
I turned on my heel, pretending I didn't hear him chuckle behind me as I walked off toward the others.