by Lexi Lawton
Kylie laughed. “How can you possibly know that? It’s the only place you’ve eaten on campus.”
“Finn told me. So did Vick, one of his frat brothers.”
That was the thing about Celeste—she could talk to anyone about anything and never be awkward or uncomfortable. Why couldn’t Kylie have that sort of confidence when it came to meeting new people?
Kylie swung open the door to the dining hall and motioned for Celeste to go in first. They got in line. “Has Finn said anything to you about Xander?”
“Like what?”
She shrugged. “I don’t know.”
Celeste turned to look at her. “Did something happen?”
“No… Maybe that’s the problem. Xander and I exchanged phone numbers, but that’s it. I saw him flirting with other girls today. Is he even single?”
“Well, with the way he was flirting with you last night, I’d sure as hell hope so.”
Kylie frowned. That wasn’t exactly the answer she was looking for.
Celeste turned back around and grabbed a fruit cup. “Stop worrying. He’s totally into you, and you two are going to hook up.”
“Yeah, right.”
“Seriously. I’ll be shocked if he doesn’t hunt you down. And if for some reason he doesn’t, you’d better make a move on him.”
“Yeah, that’s what I should do.” Kylie rolled her eyes. “Chase down a guy I just met so I can what? Throw myself at him? I doubt a guy like Xander is going to want anything to do with a girl like me, who’s only ever had one boyfriend and is still a virgin. Oh, and I’m a freshman, too.”
“You can be anyone you want now. Hell, go fuck some random guys and get some experience. Then go after Xander.”
A couple of guys who’d walked in behind them laughed. “Oh God.” Kylie groaned and covered her face. She lowered her voice. “I am not going to go fuck a bunch of random guys. That is like the worst advice in the world.”
Celeste shrugged. “Okay, you’re probably right about that. It was bad advice, but I wouldn’t wait. Xander isn’t the type of guy to stay single for long.”
“If he’s even single.”
“Okay, knock it off.” She turned back to face Kylie, pointing. “If you’re that worried about it, just ask him.”
She sighed. Celeste was right, as usual. Kylie grabbed a cup of strawberry-flavored yogurt, a package of peanut-butter crackers, and a bottle of lemon iced tea. She’d moved toward the cashier when her phone beeped with a text message. After handing over her meal-plan card, she pulled her phone from her pocket. Her heart jumped at the name on her screen.
Xander.
The activities fair sucks. I’m so bored. Know what would make it better?
Grinning like an idiot, she replied. Me? Heat erupted on her face. I can’t believe I sent that to him.
Xander: You read my mind. There was a kissing face emoji. Come back and keep me company?
“We eating outside?” Celeste came to a stop next to her. “What has you smiling so big?”
“Xander.” She texted back: Sorry. Eating with Celeste. Slipping her phone into her pocket, she said, “Sorry, yeah, let’s go outside.”
“Told you he was into you.” Celeste stuck out her tongue, then headed for the exit. They found an empty stone picnic table and sat. “I’m bummed we didn’t get a chance to talk to anyone at Sigma.”
Kylie peeled the top off her yogurt. “Like you said, we can always check out one of their parties.”
“Your enthusiasm is overwhelming,” she deadpanned. “Look, if you don’t want to go, we won’t go.”
“It’s not that I don’t want to go. It’s just…Greek life means parties, and parties usually mean alcohol. And you know how I feel about that.” She took a bite of her yogurt and avoided Celeste’s gaze. She knew how excited her friend was about Sigma, and she wanted to be supportive, but she didn’t want to get sucked into a lifestyle that could become problematic.
Celeste’s expression softened. “Just because your dad is an alcoholic doesn’t mean you’ll become one, too.”
“There are studies that suggest alcoholism is hereditary.” She twisted the top off her iced tea and took a drink. “What if it’s already in my DNA?”
“You drank at Connor’s graduation party and were fine. Besides, if there are parties with alcohol, just don’t drink. Or only have a couple. And with me there, I promise not to let you get out of control.”
She shook her head but couldn’t stop the smile that formed. “Thanks, but I can’t expect you to babysit me all the time.” But she was right about Connor’s party. Kylie had had a few drinks there, and she’d had fun. Her hangover the next morning had sucked, but she didn’t have a burning desire to repeat the behavior. Moderation was key, and she was a lot stronger—and smarter—than her father.
“Let’s check them out, and if you’re uncomfortable or don’t think they’re a good fit, I’ll drop it, okay?” Celeste said.
“Okay, but you do know you don’t need me to pledge a sorority, right? I won’t hate you if you join and I don’t.”
“I know, but we’ve always said we’d do college together, and it won’t be the same without you.” Her voice dipped low with sadness.
“I’ll keep an open mind about them. Promise.” She crossed her heart, then held out her pinkie. Laughing, Celeste twisted her pinkie around Kylie’s, and they sealed their deal.
She checked her phone, pleased to see another message from Xander. There was a frowny face followed by: Fine. But you’re mine tonight.
Her eyes widened. What does that mean? Was that his way of asking her out? Hope sparked in her chest, and she fidgeted in her seat.
Xander: You’ll find out soon.
Tonight couldn’t come fast enough.
Chapter Five
Xander blew out a deep breath and then knocked on the door. His heart was in his throat as he waited for her to answer. She was home, wasn’t she? Had she decided to go somewhere at the last minute? Celeste had sworn Kylie was staying in her room for the night. A moment later, the door swung open, and Kylie stood in front of him. She wore a pair of cotton shorts—very short shorts—and a fitted short-sleeved T-shirt. Her hair was piled in a messy bun on top of her head, and her face was free of makeup. He opened his mouth to speak, but he couldn’t form any words. She was breathtaking.
“Xander?”
He shook his head to clear it, then lifted the items in his hand. “I brought dinner and entertainment.”
She stood there, not moving. “How did you know what room I was in?”
“Celeste told me.”
She shifted on her feet. “I don’t know if I should kill her or kiss her.” Finally, she stepped aside and extended her arm in invitation. “Come in.”
He stepped into her room, and she closed the door behind him. “I figured since Finn and Celeste were on a date, we could hang out.”
She laughed. “So, our plans revolve around them now?”
“No,” he said slowly. “That’s not what I’m saying at all. I just meant…” He sighed. “I figured since Celeste was gone, you’d be available.”
She crossed her arms and raised a brow.
The implication of his words caught up with him. Shit. “I don’t mean to imply you don’t have other friends you could be with.” He dragged a hand through his hair. This was not going how he’d planned. “You don’t have other plans, do you?”
“No. I literally know three people on this campus, and you’re one of them. But you are so easy to get going.” Her eyes twinkled with mischief.
Relief settled over him, and he shook his head. “I’m going to get even with you for that.” He chuckled.
She took the plastic bag from his hand. “So, what did you bring?”
“Pizza and video games.” He set the pizza box on the desk. “Celeste said you like cheese and pepperoni, so that’s what I brought.”
“She’s full of helpful information, isn’t she?”
Xander sigh
ed. Maybe he should have called or texted first, but he’d really wanted to surprise her. “You seem mad I just showed up. I’m sorry. I’ll go.”
“No. Stay.” She reached for him, her delicate hand clutching his biceps, sending his heart racing. “I’m sorry. It’s been a long day. That’s all. This is very sweet. Thank you.”
“Are you sure?”
She nodded. “What else did you bring?” She glanced at the other bag still in his hand.
“Chocolate milk, blue cheese dressing, paper plates, and napkins. And in that bag”—he pointed to the one she’d taken and set on the bed—“is a gaming console.”
“Right. Video games. Wait…chocolate milk and blue cheese? With pizza?” She scrunched up her face.
He laughed. “Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.” He opened the package of plates, put a slice of pizza on one, and squirted some dressing on the side. Then he poured a glass of chocolate milk. Dipping the pizza into the blue cheese, he held it out to her.
“Ew, no.”
“C’mon, one bite. You’ll love it, trust me.”
She hesitated but then leaned closer, opening her mouth to take a bite. He narrowed his eyes as he watched her lips close around the slice and then pull back. Her eyes fluttered for a moment as she chewed, and her tongue darted out to lick the corner of her mouth. Christ, that was sexy. He swallowed hard and shifted to accommodate his growing erection.
Setting the pizza back on the plate, he reached for the cup of chocolate milk and handed it to her. She took a drink, meeting and holding his gaze over the rim of the cup. He’d never seen such green eyes. They were like polished emeralds. “Well?” he asked.
“It’s better than I thought it would be,” she said. “But it’s still a weird combination.”
“It’ll grow on ya.” He handed her the plate and then fixed himself one. She settled cross-legged on her bed, and he sat in the desk chair, even though he really wanted to be next to her on the bed.
“So, what kinds of video games did you bring?”
“Just Dance.” He finished his slice and reached for a second.
She froze with her pizza halfway to her mouth. “As in the game where you have to dance?”
“Yeah.” He grinned.
“I’m not doing that.” She shook her head. “No way.”
“Why not?”
“Because I have all the rhythm of a white girl from Ohio. And apparently being around you turns me into a klutz, so…” She shrugged.
He laughed. “Is that so? Well, I guess I’ll just have to show you a move or two.” He winked, and she blushed like she had yesterday. If his words had that effect on her, he’d bet his left nut the rest of her body would blush as beautifully from his touch.
“You’ve got moves?” She raised her brows. “Are they good moves?”
He wadded up a napkin and tossed it at her. She stuck out her tongue. He shook his head with amusement. “How about I get the game set up and show you?”
He set his plate on the desk and grabbed the bag with the gaming console. It took less than ten minutes for him to get it connected to the TV.
“Ready?” he asked.
“No.”
“You’re really not going to play?” He hadn’t pegged her as the type to say no to something fun and silly.
“Why don’t you go a couple rounds and show me how it’s done? Then maybe I’ll join in.” She finished her chocolate milk and set the empty cup and plate on the desk.
“Oh no. I’m not making a fool of myself alone.” He took her hands and tugged her against his chest. “It’ll be fun. Promise.” She tensed, and he gave her hands a reassuring squeeze, but she didn’t relax. What had he said to make her suddenly uncomfortable? “Kylie… Is everything okay?”
“Yeah, just…don’t make promises you can’t keep, okay? It’s this thing I have.” She averted her gaze.
His heart nearly stopped as his mind raced with what had happened to cause her to get so upset over making a promise. “Okay. Fair enough. So, you’ll play? I can guarantee I won’t laugh at you.”
“You better not, or else I’m taking you out at the knees.”
“Damn! I didn’t realize you were so violent.”
Chuckling, she pulled her hands from his. “Stop stalling and show me all these ‘great’ moves you claim to have.” She actually used air quotes around the word great.
“You’re going to eat those words, sweetheart.” He retrieved the controllers and handed her one. Then he started the game. The music was loud and clear. He waved his hands over his head and mimicked the foot placement. Kylie stood off to the side, perfectly still, staring at the TV. He stopped. “You’re supposed to copy the dance.”
“I’m watching it so I can see what’s happening. Then we can restart it, and I’ll know what to do.”
He laughed. “That’s cheating.” He started to dance again, positive he looked like a moron, but if it would get her to loosen up and laugh, he’d do it. “C’mon!”
Finally, she moved. She was slow and hesitant at first, not really getting into it. But by the third song, she was in the groove, whipping herself around and singing along. When she’d get lost, she’d freestyle, shaking her hips and ass in an innocent, erotic dance. Without realizing it, he’d stopped to watch her. Her eyes were bright and fiery. Her hair was coming loose from the bun, and stray tendrils fell across her face. Every so often, she’d push them back.
“Stop staring and start dancing. This was your idea, after all,” she said without missing a step.
He watched the combination and then picked it up, moving in sync with her. He stepped right instead of left and accidentally knocked into her just as she was lifting her arms and spinning. She smacked him in the face, hard, right below his eye, seconds before she fell to the floor with a thump.
“Ow. Shit.” He cupped his cheek. Pain spread across his face.
“Oh my God! Xander, I’m so sorry.” Her eyes were wide. “Are you okay?”
He extended his hand and helped her to her feet. “Are you?”
She nodded, and then she started to laugh. Slapping her hand over her mouth, she giggled harder. “I’m sorry.” She gasped for breath. “It’s just…I never realized this was a contact sport. I would’ve worn a helmet or something.”
He couldn’t stop from laughing, too, the movement making his cheek hurt even more. He winced.
She reached up and gently pulled his hand from his face and frowned.
“Is it bad?” It hurt like a motherfucker, the sharp sting radiating up to his eye, making it water.
“You need some ice before it swells. Sit.” She pointed at her bed.
He did as instructed, and she went to the mini-fridge in the corner. She returned and sat beside him, placing an ice pack tenderly on his cheek.
“Who keeps ice packs in their mini-fridge?”
“Celeste’s mom insisted we have one, just in case. I’m sure she didn’t intend for it to be used on a guy. Or as a result of a video game injury.” She smirked and moved the ice a bit higher. He flinched slightly, causing her to pull her hand back. “I really am sorry,” she whispered, inching closer and returning the ice to his face.
“Don’t be. It was an accident.”
“It’s because you have no rhythm,” she teased.
Smiling faintly, he dragged his hand up her arm, cupped the side of her face, and caressed her cheek with his thumb. “Did you get hurt when you fell?”
She shook her head. “I’m sure my butt will be sore in the morning, but I’m fine.”
His lips twitched into a smile. “My offer for a massage still stands.”
Ignoring his insinuation, she asked, “How’s the cheek?”
“Can hardly feel anything anymore.” Except for his heart hammering against his ribs and the lust filling him. He removed the ice pack, tossing it to the floor. Then he clutched her hands in his and brought them to his mouth, kissing her knuckles, then each of her wrists. Her pulse was erratic, punch
ing against his lips, outracing his own heartbeat. Grazing his mouth up the inside of her arm, he tugged her closer and swayed forward until their mouths were a breath’s width apart.
She stared at him with those big, bright eyes, so much innocence and longing in her gaze, and she wasn’t pulling away. In fact, she was moving closer, inviting more. Panic suddenly clutched his chest. In the past, he’d kiss a girl because he wanted to get to a second kiss, and then a third. Then more. But he didn’t want that with Kylie—he wanted more than a quick hookup. As badly as he wanted to kiss her, he wasn’t going to rush this and screw things up.
He looked away and straightened, clearing his throat. “It’s getting late. I should probably go.”
Her face fell. “Oh. Yeah. Okay.” She stood and began cleaning up the dirty plates and cups. “Did you want to take the rest of the pizza with you?” She wasn’t looking at him.
He hung his head and combed his fingers through his hair. Fuck. He’d hurt her feelings, which is exactly what he’d been trying to avoid. “Kylie…” He stood.
“No, don’t.” She held up her hand to silence him. “You don’t have to say anything.”
She was wrong. There was a lot to say.
“Thanks for coming over tonight. It was fun,” she said as she disconnected the gaming console and put everything back into the bag.
“It was fun. And thanks for the black eye.”
She whipped around to glare at him. He held his breath, praying his joke would lighten the mood between them. A moment later, her expression relaxed into a smile. “You’re a jerk.” She laughed.
He shrugged. “Clearly, my dance moves are lacking, so I have to fall back on my dazzling wit.”
“You mean the cheesy pickup lines?”
“Don’t pretend you don’t love them.”
“Whatever.” She rolled her eyes, but there was still a smile on her face. “Seriously, though, is your face okay? I feel horrible.”
“It’s fine. I’ll just tell people I got into a fight. It’ll really up my cool factor.” He reached for her, and she stepped into him, resting her hands on his waist.