Chapter 45: Why the Long Face?

Jarred knew in his heart that Lainey didn't want to be alone with him. Since that was the case, he didn't want to force Lainey anymore. "Alright then. I'll walk you out." After sending Lainey out of the courtyard, Jarred suddenly called her back. "Lainey, even though you turned me down, we can still be friends, right?" Lainey hesitated for a moment but quickly nodded once she understood what Jarred meant. "Of course, we can be friends." "Can I give you a hug then?" Jarred said as he opened his arms. Lainey got startled and instinctively took two steps back. "Well... There's no need to do that. Friends don't need to be that close, right?" She was engaged now. How could she hug another man? Disappointment appeared on Jarred's face. "I'm sorry. It was my mistake. I just thought that a friendly hug between friends shouldn't be a problem, but since you care about it, I shouldn't force you." Lainey felt a bit embarrassed, thinking that she may have overreacted. "I'm sorry. Happ