Page 34 of The Right Move

“What?”

“Yeah, I don’t really know what that’s supposed to sound like, but every one of my book boyfriends is big into growling. Oh! And can you darken your eyes?”

“Darken my eyes?”

“Yeah. When you pretend to get angry or act really turned on, can you darken your eyes?”

“No, I can’t fucking darken my eyes. What the hell are you reading?”

“Don’t hate on my books. You could learn a thing or two from them. And they’re much more entertaining than your shelves of masochism.”

I can’t hold back my laughter. “You think my reading books as a way to better myself is a form of self-inflicted pain?”

She turns her stool towards me. “Absolutely. Does anyone truly enjoy reading about that kind of stuff?”

“Don’t hate on my self-improvement books.”

“My books could qualify as your self-improvement books.” She earns another pointed glance. “Okay, okay.” Her hands go up in surrender. “But if you ever want to learn how to make a woman come three times in one chapter, I’ve got you covered.”

It’s been a while, but making a woman come sure as hell was never an issue.

She rounds the island once again and pulls out a notepad and pen from the drawer.

“We’re making a list. No, we’re making a bucket list. For you. If you can knock out this list, I’ll take you to the wedding.” She speaks as she writes. “Book Boyfriend How-To.”

“I won’t be that bad that I need a fucking list to become a passable boyfriend.”

She ignores me, continuing a column of numbers down the left side of the notepad.

“Fine. Then you’re getting a bucket list too.”

“Me?” She laughs in disbelief. “I’ve been in a relationship practically my entire life. I think I’ve got this handled.”

“Yeah, but do you have any idea how to be alone?”

Her face drops. “What?”

“When was the last time you were alone with no one else to take care of?”

“Why does that matter?”

“I’m not judging. I’m simply asking. When was the last time you had to think of only yourself?”

“That has nothing to do with our arrangement.”

Indy’s typically confident demeanor has shifted, showcasing her vulnerability. She looks away from me, brown eyes bouncing along the wall as she avoids my question.

“Ind—”

“Never. Okay? I’ve never been alone.”

I figured as much. Between her constantly wanting company and her long-term relationship that seems more like a life-long thing and not only the six years it was official.

I hold my hand out with impatience until she reluctantly places a piece of paper and a spare pen in my hand. “I’m making you a bucket list too.”

I hand it over after titling it and finally, a soft smile spreads across my roommate’s mouth.

“Indy-pendent Woman 101.” She raises a questioning brow.

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