Page 227 of Shy Girls Can't Fake Date

I exhale hard in shock. “Are you saying you’ve been lying to me?”

He shrugs. “I’d call them pep talks to keep you motivated.”

There’s a sting in my eyes. “I can’t believe you.”

“I never lied about what I think of you,” he’s quick to add. “I do think you’re awesome, talented, funny,” he pauses, swallowing hard, “and beautiful. I just knew you weren’t the girl for Lewis.”

I frown and take a step back. “Why are you being so mean?”

He looks away. “He’s not the guy for you either. You’re not a good match.”

“Why should I believe anything you say? Your whole persona is based on a lie.”

He recoils. “That’s what you took from me telling you about my family?”

“I just wish you didn’t feel like you had to put on an act to be accepted. How can I not start doubting everything you’ve said to me?”

“I lied when I said you and Lewis would end up together.” He fidgets in his stance. “But I’m not lying about you. I care about you too much to let you pine after someone who’ll never be interested in you.”

“You’re just saying this because of what I said about Yvie.”

“No, I’ve thought this all along. You need more than Lewis is willing to give.”

“No, it’ll work with us.”

“Kylie, I know my best friend. And, throughout this past week, I’ve gotten to know you too.” He shrugs it off. “You’re not compatible.”

I shove him backwards. “He does want me. He’s told me he wishes he’d noticed me before you.”

“I didn’t notice you. I noticed an opportunity.”

I retch and turn away from him. As I move away, my vision blurs.

He curses behind me and then hurries to grab my arm. “I’m sorry,” he whispers.

I fling him off. “No, you’re not.”

“Yes, I am. I don’t want you to be upset.”

I half turn. “Because you’ve been lying to me this whole time?”

“No. Because you’re my friend.”

I retch again and turn my back on him.

“Kylie, I’d give up on Yvie if it meant keeping you as my friend.”

I fold my arms and peer over my shoulder. “Why would you say that?”

“Because it’s true. I don’t want you out of my life.”

“Yvie’s made it clear she doesn’t want me around her boyfriend, whoever it ends up being.”

“I’d make both work.”

I scoff and turn to face him. “Now who’s deluding themselves? You’d be her little lap dog, just like Lewis. You wouldn’t have time for me.”

His expression drops. “I don’t want to lose what we have. Especially after...”

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