Page 6 of The Backup

“Yep.” Jacklyn snorts, quickly covering her mouth. “Can you delete that photo? I meant to delete it. Since, you know, Brian and all. But…yeah.”

I stare at the screen a moment longer than I should. Heat pools low in my belly as I delete the photo and hand her phone back. “I mean, size isn’t everything…” I mutter, trying to play it cool.

Jacklyn gives me a knowing look. “He knows how to use it too. If that’s what you’re wondering.”

I blink, caught off guard. “I mean…I guess I was. Wait. Why are you sharing all this with me?”

She leans forward, resting her elbows on the table. “Sloane, you’re my best friend. I can’tnotshare these things with you.”

“It wouldn’t be weird if I went for it with him?” I ask, hesitant. “Like, weird for you? Since you dated him?”

Jacklyn grins slyly. “So, you’re thinking about it? Are you breaking up with Joe?”

“I don’t know what I’m going to do. I guess I should,” I admit.

“I just don’t want to see you all sad. And if having my blessing helps, you’ve got it. I always liked Asher. He was fun when I needed it—a real gentleman. Things just fizzled out. It wasn’t meant to be. I’m happy now. But maybe he’d be a good rebound for you.”

“This is a lot to think about,” I say, taking a big bite of my wrap. “Thanks for grabbing this, by the way. You’re the best.”

“So…” Jacklyn rests her chin on her palm. “What are you going to do?”

I shrug, chewing slowly. “I’ve always been a high-road girl.”

Jacklyn smirks. “The high road is great, but if it’s not working out for you…maybe it’s time to take theYouroad. Just saying.”

two

. . .

Sloane

All week,I can’t stop thinking about the “Me” road. The more I dwell on it, the more it starts to make sense.

I bury myself in my books, trying to stay ahead of my readings, but I can’t escape the pit growing in my stomach.

Joe and I have spent three years building what I thought was our future—a power couple in the making. He’d get drafted into the NFL, and I’d stand by his side, unwavering through thick and thin.

But this week, he’s dodgy. “Super busy” with workouts, he says. Too busy to hang out.

It’s bullshit, and I know it. He’s stalling. Avoiding the inevitable.

And so am I.

When Friday rolls around, Jacklyn tells me Asher has been asking about me, wondering if I’m coming to their “casual get-together” at Sigma Nu. My answer is an easy, resoundinghell yes.

We arrive at the party, and the basement is packed. Music thumps through the walls, beer pong tables are full, and the air smells like cheap beer and cologne.

Joe is already there, tall and handsome, playing beer pong with some guys and a scantily clad girl I’ve never seen before. When he spots me, he gives me a lazy chin nod, his attention barely wavering from his game.

“So…” Jacklyn leans toward me. “Are you going to do it? Break up with him?”

“Yes. I’m doing it.” My voice is firm, though my heart pounds. “Just not in front of everyone. I don’t want to cause drama.”

“Such a good girl.”

The voice isn’t Jacklyn’s. It’s low, amused, and comes from behind me.

I turn and find Asher, grinning at me.

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