Total pages in book: 74
Estimated words: 72060 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 360(@200wpm)___ 288(@250wpm)___ 240(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 72060 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 360(@200wpm)___ 288(@250wpm)___ 240(@300wpm)
“Okay, the truth is…I do have a date, but it’s with someone you already know.”
“Huh?” His eyes brighten. “Is it that Brandon guy from the party?”
“Hell no! Like that would ever happen.”
“Well then, who?”
“Before I tell you, know that you’re the one who planted the seed in my head on our way home from the mixer. You said that maybe I should ask Dex to like…” I trail off, trying to remember the exact phrasing.
“Make someone jealous?”
I cover my face with my hands, having that same reaction to the suggestion. “Yes…but before that, you suggested he should sort of…show me the ropes. Okay, now that I’m saying it aloud, it sounds dumb.”
“It’s not dumb. It’s a great idea. So, what did Dex say?”
“Guess he thinks it’s an okay idea because he asked me on a ‘date.’” I use air quotes so he knows it’s not real.
“I love this. Where are you going?”
“To the bonfire party on the beach this Friday. It’s organized by the LGBTQ+ club.”
“Sounds perfect.”
I wince as my stomach rolls. “Or it could be a total bust.”
“Even if it is, you’ll be with Dex.”
“That’s kind of what he said.” I blow out a relieved breath that we’re all on the same page.
“It sounds like he’s going to try and make it feel authentic.” He glances at my cell. “What are the texts about?”
I smile and shake my head. “I don’t know exactly. The first one came out of the blue. He’s asking me questions he already knows the answers to.”
But if I’m being honest, there are things I forgot…or maybe I like hearing his version of them again.
“Aw, I really like that. He’s good at this and doesn’t even know it.”
“Right? Anyway, go back to studying.”
“Do I have to?” He lies back and throws his arms out dramatically. “Would you mind quizzing me on the terms?”
“Absolutely.”
He hands me the notebook. Besides, anything to take my mind off this shit.
11
DEX
Even though we’re only goofing around, I’m looking forward to my second round of questions for Austin on Wednesday night. If only I can see his expression when he realizes I plan to continue for two more nights until our actual date.
If Austin is annoyed, he certainly didn’t act it in the dining hall earlier. But we’d been with a table full of friends, and he might be mortified if they find out what we’re doing. Instead, we shared a silly, secret smile upon seeing each other, which only makes me more determined to treat this experience like it’s real—for Austin’s sake.
I pad into my room, trying not to disturb Milo, who’s watching a video on his phone. Once I change out of my clothes and slide beneath my covers, I scroll through my cell to Austin’s number.
Where did you grow up? is my next question. I planned some of them, but mostly I’m winging it, which isn’t hard when it comes to Austin.
I smirk when I read his reply. What are we doing, Dex?
I’m trying to get to know you before our first date. I have no idea why I’m smiling except that it’s Austin, and if I know him, he’s secretly freaking out over the texts and his responses as if our date is for real. He used to get overly serious watching game shows with his mom as if he was going to be the contestant to win thousands of dollars by answering correctly. I quickly add: Unless you’re only looking for a hookup?
My stomach feels funny as I wonder whether he’ll ignore my question just to irritate me or if he’s overthinking his response.
I’m not one to hook up…though, never say never. I like to get to know someone first.
Never say never? I have a feeling he’s messing with me. He doesn’t have a lot of experience with guys, but I also know how anxious he is to get moving on that front. So maybe he would hook up if the right situation presented itself. I get this strange sensation in my gut telling me we need to step up these practice dates.
Are you looking for a relationship?
I adjust myself against my pillows and wait.
I’m interested in dating someone, and if it leads to a meaningful relationship, that’s cool. But I know how rare that can be, so I’m just hoping for good conversation and making some sort of connection.
I frown, my thumbs immediately typing: What makes you think it’s rare?
I mean, I obviously know it is. The only couple I can think of who’ve been together for a long while and are still going strong are Austin’s mom and stepdad. Which is why his answer surprises me. He’s had such good relationship role models in them. Or is that part of the problem? Maybe he feels he can’t live up to what they have or what he reads in his romance novels.