"I didn't tell you because I knew you wouldn't allow me to leave if you knew. Besides, I was worried about Vivian. He instructed me not to tell anyone, so I thought it was for the best—"
"When did you ever include me in your decisions?" Alec snapped before Lauren could finish her explanation. "Have you ever thought of leaning on me for once? You never did. You always think you could do things all by yourself. You think I couldn't help you!"