Page 44 of Hateful Games

“But—”

She shakes her head sternly and holds one finger up, reminding me of my strict chemistry teacher in high school. “We’ve had your way of fun for the past two days. Now it is my turn.”

“Fine.” I stare at the store wistfully.

“Get that pout off your face.”

“I’m not pouting,” I grumble. “I don’t pout. Period.”

“Then wipe away that puppy dog look.”

“That’s worse.”

“Jeez.”

“Okay. No more bookstores.” Hefting my shopping bag to my elbow, I asked her, “What do you wanna do?”

“Tonight, we’ll have dinner because I’m wiped out from all the walking up and down the aisles,” she answers before smirking and wagging her eyebrows suggestively. “But tomorrow, we’re going to a secret masked ball. Your fantasy-loving arse will go berserk over it.”

I narrow my gaze suspiciously. “If it’s a secret, how do you know about it?”

“Because I’m cousins with Nova.”

“Then you know we can’t,” I retort. “It’s his graduation ceremony, remember? I can’t exactly skip it.”

“It’s a good thing it’s his after-party.” Her tone is smug. “Also, why can’t you skip if you want to?”

“Because I don’t trust your cousin not to tattle to my father.”

“He will never.”

“Miya, I mean it in the sweetest way possible, but your precious brother has an evil side that you don’t see.” I keep my voice soft. “I have a front-row seat, which he reserves for me.”

“Oh.” Her face is comical. “Then you better not spill to him about coming to the ball. I am going to sneak us both in.”

“So, you aren’t invited?”

“Only the seniors are from all the Russell Group universities.” She then explains as we resume walking, “It’s a yearly tradition. Their last night to create chaos.”

“Do we even want to be around that?”

“Why not? I want to see what the fuss is all about.”

The way she describes it, the adventurous and day dreamer part of me becomes elated. A thrill takes root in my stomach as I realize it’s the perfect opportunity to lose my V-card. The idea of a masked man having his way with me in the dark swirls a ball of desire deep in my core.

How often do I get a chance like this? Hardly ever.

My mind made up, I smile at Miya. “One problem. I don’t have a dress suitable for a ball.”

“Shopping?” she questions brightly.

“Hell yeah.”

“Finally, something I’m on board with.”

I shake my head at her antics and search for a cab. We quickly catch one and slide into the back seat before asking the driver to take us to the Westfield Stratford City.

Since I’m carrying a heavy number of books, we make a pit stop at Miya’s place, which is on our way, and keep them there. Until I can come over tomorrow to pick them up as we decide we will get ready at her apartment for the party.

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