Page 65 of Easy Out

I walk back to Hart’s bed and lay down on my stomach hugging a pillow under me. I sniff the damn thing like a psycho. It smells like him. I want to steal it and cuddle with it every night.

SYD

But this is both of them at their house. It’s serious.

ME

Are you purposely trying to freak me out?

SYD

They will love you, Lo. You have nothing to freak out about. You’re amazing. Hart is crazy about you.

ME

He is not. Anyway, how would you know that?

SYD

It’s pretty obvious. You aren’t hiding your feelings either.

You ain’t foolin’ me, Lo.

ME

What if he just likes me because he isn’t afraid to talk to me. I’m like the only option he has, ya know?

SYD

Is that what you’re worried about?

One of the things, but I’m not ready to tell her more. Sydney doesn’t know about my family and foster care. I need to tell her. I will tell her. Just not yet.

ME

Sometimes. Yes.

SYD

What if he talks to you because you are the only option period? The only one he sees. The only one he wants.

ME

Sounds like a fairytale from one of your books Syd.

The door clicks open, and I’m clouded in a haze of Hart’s body wash. The sandalwood and mint scent reminds me of when I gave Hart a ride home after the dance battle. That night seems like so long ago.

"Brujita." Hart’s voice is strangled as if he is struggling internally to keep himself in check. I look at him over my shoulder and squeak.

Hart’s dark, curly hair is wet and hangs heavy on the left side of his face. He is also naked except for a towel he has in a death grip, wrapped low around his hips.

I’m staring. I know I am, but I can’t seem to tear my eyes away from the hard packed muscle in front of me. I force myself to turn around so he can get dressed and fire off messages to Sydney so fast I’m surprised my fingers aren’t smoking.

ME

I’ve got to go. Hart just walked back into the room.

IN. A. TOWEL.

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