Chapter 5

I must admit, I'm a classic Southern girl. Just two days back home, and my cold vanished. No more runny nose, fever, or sore throat—I felt like myself again. The only downside was the lingering heartache.

My parents were overjoyed to have me back, spoiling me as if I were a kid all over again. That evening, Alexis arranged a get-together at a bar to welcome me home. She eyed the drink in front of me, "Ariah, you used to be able to handle your liquor. What's with the soda?"

I used to drink, sure, before I met Xander Ross.…