Page 54 of Close

“Nothing. I’ll call her.”

“Lil.”

“I’ve been spending time with someone. A guy.”

Silence.

“Do I know this guy?” he asks.

“No.”

“So. You’ve been with him?”

“Yes. I… We’re not really dating. We’ve just been talking. Hanging out.” It’s not a total lie.

“I see.” There’s a hint of amusement in Levi’s voice. “And you like him? What’s his name?”

“Promise you won’t do anything? You promised you’d let me have my college experience.”

“Depends.”

The last time I told Levi the name of a guy I liked, he made sure the guy was ready for what would happen if he broke my heart. No need to say, he never talked to me again, and I doubt that was the only thing. Because Lan had that crazy smile when he’s up to no good.

I’m not that little girl anymore. I don’t need their overprotective brother stuff.

“Lil. I can also find it out myself,” he says.

“Sebastian.”

“You like him?”

“I don’t know,” I mumble. “Maybe. Please don’t do anything embarrassing.”

Silence.

Then he sighs. “I won’t. Just promise me you’ll be careful. That guy better treat you well and respect your boundaries, or he’ll have me to answer to.”

Some things never change. “The voices go away when he’s there.”

“Does he make you feel safe?”

I nod. “He’s different from the others. I don’t feel as anxious around him.”

“Fine.” Levi’s tone holds a note of approval. “I won’t do anything irrational. But if this Sebastian ever makes you feel otherwise, promise you’ll tell me right away.”

“I promise.”

“Okay. You should rest.”

“I’m really sorry. Good night.”

“Good night,” Levi says. “We love you, you know that, right?”

My throat tightens. “I know. I love you, too.”

The call ends. I lower the phone from my ear.

I hope he really won’t interfere.

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