Page 51 of Icebound Attraction

“Don’t apologize! You're entitled to a secret garden too! You agreed not to tell anyone about your study sessions. Well, I didn't expect you to tell me you'd slept with Liam Scott. And it sounded really hot!”

I blush in spite of myself.

“But you don't owe me anything, and I'm glad you decided to talk to me about it. I get the impression that it's weighing on you a lot...” she finishes.

She pats my arm, sympathetic, and I sigh.

“I hate feeling this way...”

“Jealousy is a natural emotion. It's important to recognize it and understand where it comes from. And above all, why it occurs.”

I massage my forehead.

“But I don't want jealousy to rule my thoughts and actions,” I declare.

She smiles softly.

“Instead of repressing it, try to understand it. Why are you jealous?”

I think about it for a moment.

“I wonder if that evening with me meant anything to him.”

Maddie takes my hand in hers.

“These thoughts are normal, but you should also realize that you are precious and unique. And you're the one who suggested the two of you should be friends. If that's not what you want, you have to tell him. But if you think it's the best thing for both of you, then really become friends.”

I didn't tell Maddie about the conversation I overheard between Liam and Coach Franklyn. And more importantly, why I went to talk to him in the first place. One thing at a time, and I've already made some big revelations.

“Thank you, Maddie. You're right, I shouldn't let someone psych me out like that.”

“You're a strong, independent woman!” she says, encouraging me. “And I'm here for you if you ever need to talk.”

I hug Maddie and feel my determination grow.

It's time for me to pull myself together and stop letting my emotions rule me. I'll never get far in life if I have an emotional crisis after every one-night stand.

Maddie is simply incredible. She always knows what to say. Sometimes I feel like she knows me better than I know myself.

After she leaves, I'm off for a walk around campus. A little distraction will do me good, and maybe I'll find the words to write my column.

With my camera in hand, I wander around campus, taking photos of anything that catches my eye. I like to immortalize the everyday and the little details of life. It helps me shift focus when I feel like I'm trapped in my own head.

As I squat in front of a tree and adjust my aim, I notice Chase doing some stretching exercises on a bench.

He smiles at me, and I smile back. I approach him and we chat a little. What a nice guy! Cassy is right to fall for him: he's open, kind and, let's face it, really hot!

Suddenly, I feel a shadow looming over me and, looking up, I see Liam standing beside us. The expression on his face is hard to interpret.

“Hey! Emily, can I talk to you for a minute?” he asks, his voice serious.

I bite my lip and suddenly feel uncomfortable.

“Of course!” I reply, feigning detachment.

Without a word, I walk away to a quieter spot. When we stop, I can feel the tension in the air between us.

“What is it?” I finally ask, my voice trying to relax.

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