The Last Lie We Told - Chapter #3 - Free To Read

“Well, well,” Noah says, smirking. “Didn’t think I’d see you today, Evans.”

I ignore the way my stomach flips at the way he says my name. I have no time for distractions.

“I need a favor,” I say, my voice firm.

His smirk widens. “And here I thought you hated me.”

I cross my arms. “Do you want to hear my offer or not?”

Noah studies me for a moment before shoving his phone into his pocket. “Alright. I’m listening.”

I take a deep breath. “Be my boyfriend.”

For the first time, Noah actually looks surprised.

Then he chuckles. “Wow. Didn’t see that coming.”

“It’s not real,” I say quickly. “It’s just for show. I want to make Jason and Savannah suffer.”

Noah tilts his head, amused. “So you want me to be your revenge toy?”

I hold his gaze. “Yes.”

He exhales, shaking his head. “Damn. Never thought I’d see sweet little Layla Evans plotting destruction.”

“I’m not sweet,” I snap. “Not anymore.”

He watches me carefully, then pushes off the vending machine. “Alright,” he says. “I’ll do it.”

Just like that?

I blink. “That was… easy.”

He shrugs. “I’ve been waiting for you to open your eyes about Jason. Besides…” His smirk returns. “Who wouldn’t want to date me?”

I roll my eyes. “It’s fake, Kingston. Don’t get ahead of yourself.”

He winks. “Whatever you say, Evans.”

I should feel relieved. Instead, something about the way he’s looking at me sends a strange, unfamiliar heat crawling up my spine.

I push the feeling away.

“Just one condition,” Noah says suddenly.

I narrow my eyes. “What?”

His smirk fades slightly, and for the first time, his expression turns serious.

“You can’t fall for me.”

I let out a short, bitter laugh. “Trust me. That won’t be a problem.”

He searches my face for a second longer, then nods.

“Alright then,” he says, offering his hand. “Let’s make them regret everything.”

I hesitate, then take it.

And just like that, the deal is sealed.

The next morning, the school is buzzing with whispers. It only takes one strategically planned moment for the rumor to explode—Noah and I walking in together, his arm draped lazily over my shoulder as if it’s always belonged there.

Heads turn. People stare.

Jason, who’s laughing with his friends by the lockers, goes completely still when he sees us.

Savannah, standing next to him, slowly raises an eyebrow.

I can feel the weight of their eyes, but I keep my head high, gripping onto Noah’s hand like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

“Act natural,” Noah murmurs, his lips dangerously close to my ear.

I swallow, my pulse racing. “I am.”

“Relax, Evans,” he says, squeezing my hand. “You’re doing great.”

We stop by my locker, and Noah leans in a little closer. “Now for the grand finale.”

Before I can react, he reaches up and tucks a loose strand of hair behind my ear, his fingers brushing against my skin.

I stiffen.

The hallway erupts into whispers.

“What the hell?”

Jason’s voice slices through the noise.

I turn to see him standing just a few feet away, staring at us like he can’t believe what he’s seeing.

I tilt my head. “Something wrong?”

Jason’s jaw tightens. “Since when were you and Noah…?”

“Since now,” Noah answers casually, sliding an arm around my waist.

Jason’s hands curl into fists. “Dude, this is a joke, right?”

I smile sweetly. “Does it look like a joke?”

Jason looks like he wants to say something, but Savannah steps forward before he can.

“Well, well,” she purrs, looking between Noah and me with amusement. “Didn’t expect this.”

Noah grins. “Jealous?”

Savannah just smirks. “Not at all. But I do love a good plot twist.”

She’s not upset. She’s entertained.

And that makes my blood boil.

Noah senses my tension because he squeezes my waist slightly. “Come on, babe,” he says smoothly. “Let’s get to class.”

Babe.

I ignore the way the word makes my stomach flip and let him lead me away.

The second we turn the corner, I let out a breath.

“That was insane,” I mumble.

Noah laughs. “Welcome to the dark side, Evans.”

I roll my eyes but can’t help the small smile tugging at my lips.

Then, suddenly, the flip phone in my pocket vibrates.

I stop walking, my heart pounding.

“Careful. Fake love can turn real.”