He doesn’t hesitate but cocks his head to the opposite side as he lights the vines on fire and panic begins all over again, but this time, for real as the dry branches go up in flames in an instant.

My hands fly to my mouth and by the time I look back to where the boys had stood…

They’re gone.

Chapter 23

The fire department arrived within seven minutes and Scott and the others, all intoxicated, were somehow able to use the well water on the land to stop the spread, or so they continue to boast.

Really, they’re lucky Ransom chose the row he did. The outer row, where the wind blew opposite of the others and was located closest to their water supply.

This could have been bad really, everyone is drunk and has been drinking for hours already, so they’re idiots for what they did.

It was reckless and dumb and could land them in jail.

Everyone here likely assumes they don’t care, but I know that’s untrue.

I don’t know what the hell Ransom was thinking tonight. This could be bad for him; it could screw up a lot more than I know.

But I try and force myself not to care, while also eavesdropping as much as I can when the officers ask around for statements.

So far, nobody has given one of merit.

It was too dark to see...

By now, most everyone has gone home, and my sister and Tanner have just pulled up, but I don’t make it to the curb before Scott is slipping in front of me.

His eyes are pinched tight at the edges, but his touch is gentle as he grabs my left hand, my heels dangling from my right, and pulls me into him.

I lift the corner of my mouth and his free fingers glide into my hair.

I tense, my body hating the feeling of another’s touch there, but my mind screams it’s no big deal, that it shouldn’t be. He either doesn’t notice, or he pretends not to.

“Thanks for being my date tonight,” he says.

I nod. “Kind of funny, how I only texted you last night and you still didn’t have one.”

He smirks. “I had one, just had to wait for her to realize she did too.”

A low laugh leaves me, and I tip my head slightly.

“I was hoping you’d stay, planned for it really,” he admits.

“Yeah, I think you’ll be busy for a while.” I motion toward the firetrucks still lining the street, finishing up whatever it is they have to do.

He nods, and when he leans in, my chest clenches.

I close my eyes, ready for it, desperate to erase the last lips that landed on mine, but my head decides to turn away without permission, and my eyes fly open when his mouth freezes on my cheek.