Total pages in book: 75
Estimated words: 71915 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 360(@200wpm)___ 288(@250wpm)___ 240(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 71915 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 360(@200wpm)___ 288(@250wpm)___ 240(@300wpm)
“Since the tattoo discussion? It’s true enough.” I paced the room. “Or, listen, we don’t have to say anything at all. You’re gonna be the one to take the brunt of it. It was a stupid idea to show up here. Like I said, I only wanted to see you.”
“Obviously, I’m not complaining.”
“I just…I like this, what we’re doing. As long as we continue being up front with each other. Is that wrong?”
“Only in Bailey’s eyes.”
Alex winced as he pulled his shirt over his head, and my heart climbed to my throat.
“Did I hurt you?” I lifted the material to expose his chest. “Just wanted to make you feel good.”
“I’ve never had someone do that before.” He flushed. “I loved it. I only hope it looks okay by tomorrow morning.”
I leaned forward to kiss each nipple, noting the redness, which would likely be gone in a couple of hours. At least I hoped so.
He groaned. “You’re gonna get us in trouble again.”
Chuckling, I pulled his shirt down and stepped back, but my fingers were still itching to touch him. “I think it’s gonna be fine. I promise to go lightly on you next time. If there is a next time.”
Alex bit his lip. “I sure hope so.”
Suddenly the door sprang open, and in walked Bailey, his eyebrows knitted together in confusion.
My heart was thrashing in my ears. Holy shit, that’d been awfully close.
“Wh…what’s going on? What is Remy doing here?”
“Oh, hey.” I tried to steady my voice, hoping nothing seemed off about our appearance, and grateful Alex had his shirt back on. “Alex mentioned an opportunity at the teen center, and I wanted to tell him I’ve decided to volunteer.”
“Really?” Alex asked, eyes wide, obviously forgetting he was supposed to be acting the part.
I wanted to make fun of him, but instead, I cleared my throat. “Yeah, the art department put up a flyer about it too, and I decided it was a good idea.”
Bailey looked between us, clearly suspicious, and I could see why. The excuse was flimsy at best. But it could also make sense—me seeking Alex out.
I stepped toward the door. “So, uh, guess I’ll be going then.”
“Thanks for stopping by,” Alex said in a ridiculously fake voice. “I’ll let you know when the group is heading over there again. Glad you decided to help out.”
“Yeah, I think it’ll feel good.” I glanced over my shoulder at Bailey. “You doing okay? How was your date?”
“How did you…?” He narrowed his eyes at Alex. “Ugh, this is what I was afraid of. You don’t need to tell him stuff.”
“Huh?” Alex made a frustrated sound. “When Remy came to the door, I explained you were out with Danica. What’s wrong with that?”
“Nothing.” He glowered as he sank down on his bed.
“Well, I’m happy for you, even if you don’t believe it—or care.” I twisted the doorknob a bit too forcefully. “No matter what, you’re still my brother. Catch you later.”
As I hiked down the steps, I realized my mood had taken a nosedive from elated to glum. Life sure sucked sometimes.
14
Alex
“So…how was your night with Danica?” I asked, pretending nothing strange had just happened—like my best friend’s brother showing up and rocking my world.
His scowl transformed into a sappy smile. “It was good.”
“Yeah?” I slid under my sheets, fatigue suddenly hitting me. “Awesome. Glad you were able to introduce her to your mom too.”
He’d never admit that it was Remy who’d reached out to her first after the meet and appeared to ease the tension. Remy, who’d shocked me by showing up again. I’d told myself it was to hang out with his mom, but every time I stole a glance in their direction, he’d been watching me. Making my skin tingle. Thankfully, instead of making me nervous to compete, it only spurred me on, and I ended up beating my time from the previous meet.
“Only wish Dad had made it,” Bailey said in a glum tone.
“Next time,” I replied, and he nodded.
“And you?” he asked as he toed out of his shoes and got changed for bed. “Any dating prospects on campus?”
I looked away because, damn, this was awkward. But if I knew Bailey, he was still hinting about Jordan, even though I’d sworn up and down that night was an innocent meeting. I didn’t know why he cared so much.
“I’ve got enough going on with swim and classes and now the teen center.”
He scoffed. “And now Remy will be volunteering with you.”
“I’m not the one who struggles being around him.” I balled my fist under the covers. “I’ve known him practically my whole life.”
He threw himself dramatically across his sheets. “Can’t I at least have one person on my side?”
“I’ve been on your side this whole time,” I said, frustrated. “I don’t agree with some of the shit you say, but I’ve supported you through your parents’ divorce.”