Once we got back into town, Alec picked up a rental car to drive the rest of the way. After a half an hour, the buildings began to look familiar. Anxiety churned in my gut as we drew closer to town. I rolled my lip between my teeth, something I often did when I was stressed out.  

"There's nothing to worry about." Alec reassured me, flashing me one of his dimpled grins before turning his attention back on the road. "Garrett won't get his hands on you, and Grace is out of the picture. You won't be anywhere near Melissa and Frank either." 

"It's not them I'm worried about." I sighed, "When I ran away, it wasn't just you and Kade I left behind." 

"Tori." Alec nodded, his eyes on the road. I could feel the echo of pain deep within him, suppressed yet present. Leaving had hurt Alec and Kade more than I could've ever understood. "She was more worried than anything, but I can't speak for her." 

"I don't blame her." I shook my head, "For