Page 70 of Tongue-Tied

When I come back out, Austin is with Kael near the karaoke stage.

“Did you hear?” Kael says excitedly. “Austin gave someone his number!”

“I did hear.” I pat Austin’s shoulder halfheartedly. “It’s what you wanted…what we wanted for you.”

So then, why do I feel so crummy?

I feel Kael watching me, so I force a smile. “Toby seemed nice.”

“Yeah, he was,” Austin says with wary eyes. Or maybe he’s still a bit loopy from the edible. I should be thankful Austin didn’t decide to leave with Toby in that condition, but I also know he never would. Hookups aren’t his thing. But even if he changed his mind, he’s an adult and can make his own decisions. Christ, I sound like his parent or something.

“Cute too,” I throw out.

Austin nods. “Definitely cute.”

“He seemed into you…and I didn’t hear you get too tongue-tied.”

“I suppose I didn’t…” His eyes spring to mine. “That’s good, huh?”

“Yep.” I down my water because my throat is suddenly dry.

“Guess that means your fake dating worked,” Kael points out.

Austin looks down and scratches the back of his neck. “Probably.”

Kael playfully grips Austin’s shoulder. “Suppose you don’t need any more lessons from Dex. You did awesome on your own!”

I hold my breath as Austin throws me a cursory glance. “I guess not.”

Angelica and her friends start belting out the refrain of that corny “Sweet Caroline” song, and Kael joins them. Austin and I stand awkwardly watching, side by side.

I feel queasy and hot and want nothing more than to get out of there.

“I think I’m gonna find Ian and the guys, then head out.”

“O…kay.”

I don’t look at Austin. I can’t right then, so I just wave my goodbyes and head toward the booth where I last left my housemates. I let them know my plans, then take off despite their objections and offers of appetizers from the table.

Instead of heading back to Poli House, I decide on the beach.

As soon as my feet hit the sand, I feel someone behind me and turn to find Austin.

“What are you…? Did you follow me?”

He bites his lip. “I was concerned.”

“Why?”

“Because you seemed upset.”

I feel a thread of that same frustration. “Upset about what?”

“I don’t know!” He throws up his hands. “That’s why I followed you.”

“I’m not upset.” I cover my lie with a cough. “Just enjoying the salty sea air.”

“Can I enjoy it with you?” he asks tentatively.

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