Page 57 of The Backup

“Subtlety,” I offer, leaning back in my chair.

Brian narrows his eyes at me but doesn’t take the bait. “So, you in?”

I shrug, fighting the urge to smirk. “Sure. Sounds fun.”

“Great,” he says, clapping his hands together. “Monday at eight. Don’t be late.”

As he turns to leave, Jacklyn shakes her head at him. “I cannot believe you’re doing this.”

Brian waves her off. “It’s called being a good host, Jacklyn. You should try it sometime.”

I chuckle as he strides back to the table, clearly satisfied with himself. Jacklyn mutters something under her breath, probably about how ridiculous he is, but I don’t bother listening.

All I can think about now is game night. And the fact that Sloane will be there.

This just got a lot more interesting.

nineteen

. . .

Sloane

I’m sittingcross-legged on my bed, scrolling aimlessly on my phone, but my mind is already on tonight. Just a game night. Just a few friends hanging out. Totally normal.

Except Brian invited Asher.

I tap out a text before I can second-guess myself.

Me: So, I’ve been informed that you’ll be attending game night tonight.

The reply comes almost immediately.

Asher: Ah, so you’re counting down the hours, huh?

I grin, biting my lip.

Me: I wouldn’t say that.

Asher: Liar. I bet you’ve been thinking about me since the moment you found out.

Me: What if I have?

The three dots appear again, and my stomach flutters.

Asher: Then I’d say you’re going to have a very hard time focusing tonight.

Me: Oh? And why’s that?

Asher: Because every time you look at me, you’re going to remember how you begged for me the other night.

Heat blooms in my cheeks, and I shift against the pillows.

Me: Maybe I’ll be thinking about how good it felt.

Asher: Good? That’s it? Sloane, you were shaking so hard I thought the neighbors were going to file a noise complaint.

I laugh softly, my pulse quickening as I type back.

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