I try to imagine what having Mr. Park as a boyfriend would be like. Would he be growly and impatient like he is with the other students in class or would he be sweet just for me? Until today, I might not think it was possible for him to be sweet to anyone, but then he winked at me. We shared a moment and it was charged.

I wonder if we’ll ever get an opportunity like it again.

“Dad!”

The room that had felt deliciously warm a second ago drops to a chilly temperature. I force my stare down to my lap and pick at my nails. It feels like I’m in trouble, but I didn’t do anything. And now Darren is here, dragged from whatever scummy thing he was doing before he was called to deal with us.

Mr. Erickson lays it all out, explaining to Darren the entire story. Blood rushes in my ears and I miss most of what’s being said. My only hope is that Mr. Park speaks up on my behalf if need be.

“Miss Reyes.”

Mr. Park’s deep voice hooks into me, tugging me from the darkness I’d settled into. I skate my eyes over to him and take in the way he motions for the door.

He wants me to leave.

No problem.

I shakily stand and grab my bag. Levi’s legs are stretched out, blocking the path. I make the mistake of looking at him. His blue eyes burn with hatred for me—a hatred I’ve yet to understand.

“Excuse me,” I murmur, tearing my eyes from his to look at his feet.

He doesn’t move them.

Smack!

“Ow, fuuu—dge. Dad, what the hell?” Levi’s feet jerk back and he rubs at his arm.

“Are you okay, cupcake?” Darren asks, voice dripping with faux concern.

I jerk my head up, looking at him in confusion. Is he talking to me? Cupcake? Since when?

“She’s fine,” Mr. Park assures him, an unidentifiable edge in his tone. “Miss Reyes, I need assistance making copies for an assignment tomorrow. Can you help and I’ll return you to your stepfather once they’re done here?”

Darren’s eyes are burning holes into me. I sense that he doesn’t want me to go, but it’s not exactly like I have options right now. Besides, I’d rather escape with Mr. Park than spend another second in this office, suffocating in his stifling presence.

“Yes, sir,” I say, avoiding Darren’s attention. “Happy to help.”