152

ADELINE

Deja vu hits me like a slap.

“I’d rather not,” I say, glaring at him. “I’m perfectly comfortable over here.”

His smile falters. He exhales like he’s carrying the weight of the world. “I know I messed up, Addie. I’m not even gonna defend myself. I just—” he sets the cup down with a soft clink, “—need to explain.”

“There’s nothing to explain, Brooks.” I scoff. “It’s been almost a year. I’ve