“Fine. I guess you’ll also explain to them how I came to be in possession of your underwear.”
“What underwear? I’ve never seen that before in my life. It doesn’t even look like my size. You seem like a lovely kid, but you’re clearly delusional.”
Fuck. She was pretty convincing. If I almost believed her, even while knowing the truth, I was sure others would too. I didn’t fancy my chances if it was a case of her word against mine.
“Oh, is that how you’re going to play it? I’m some kind of crazy person?”
She shrugged, giving off a strong air of indifference.
I almost bought it. Almost.
“Look, Chantelle, Natalie, or whatever your name is.”
“It’s Natalie, but given we’re still on college grounds, it’s Dr. Patterson to you right now.”
“Look, Natalie.” I was being an asshole, but I couldn’t seem to help myself. “I know you don’t want to air your dirty laundry, any more than I want to be hauled up by campus cops, so how about this: I’ll move my car if you promise to come for one drink.” I waited nervously for her to make her decision.
“For God’s sake! Okay. One drink, Luke, then we’re done, okay?”
I nodded, not daring to speak the lie aloud.