Sarah

Aria's Pov

The taxi rumbled along the winding road, carrying Tom and me away from the familiar grounds of Banes Academy. Though we'd told everyone we were headed to Avenport, our true destination was the neighboring city of Gateport. As trees blurred past the window, I turned to Tom, curiosity getting the better of me.

"So, what exactly did you tell Jennie about our little excursion?" I asked, trying to keep my tone casual. "I mean, she didn't have any doubts about us going off together, did she?"

Tom's dark eyes met mine, a hint of mischief in their depths. "Actually, she wanted to come along," he admitted with a sheepish grin. "But I told her I had a surprise gift I had to buy for her, so she couldn't join us. It's a good excuse, isn't it?"

I couldn't help but chuckle. "Oh, Tom. You better actually get her something now, or you'll be in hot water."