Page 32 of Ink & Stardust

“You don’t.” He shakes his head, causing a dark strand to fall across his forehead into his eye.

I can’t stop myself from reaching up and pushing it away from his face, taken by how soft and silky the strands are.

“Or maybe you’re just afraid that I do.” I continue to push, to what end, I do not know.

It’s not like I’m actually going to sleep with the guy... right?

“Why would I be afraid?” He challenges, something in his eyes wavering.

“You tell me.”

“There you are!”

I jump at the sound of Charlotte’s voice, turning to see her and my brother approach.

When I turn back toward Kai, I’m met with his backside as he’s already walking away. Disappointment settles deep in my gut, but I do my best to tuck it down where I keep everything else buried that I don’t want to think about.

“Who was that?” River asks, gesturing to the spot Kai occupied until only moments ago.

“Nobody. Just some guy.” I brush it off, not trying to unpack Kai Elliot with my brother, of all people. I’m just about to ask where Maisie is when she appears seemingly out of nowhere.

“Is it just me or does this party suck all of a sudden?” she slurs.

“Everything okay?” I ask, looping my arm through hers to give her some stability when she stumbles slightly.

“Boys suck.” She groans.

“Girl, don’t I know it,” I murmur under my breath. “I’m ready if you are.”

“Do you mind if I stay?” Charlotte asks, her gaze bouncing between me and Maisie.

“I’m not leaving you here alone,” I tell her, shaking my head.

“I’ll stay,” River offers.

“You sure?” I give my brother an apprehensive look.

“Yeah, this is probably the last time I’ll ever get to attend one of these. I can hang out and make sure Charlotte gets home safe.”

“Really?” Char claps excitedly. “I mean, if that’s okay with you.” She gives me the biggest pretty-please smile I’ve ever seen.

“Okay,” I reluctantly agree.

It’s not that I have a problem with them staying. I just hope they don’t end up hooking up or something because that would be painfully awkward for me.

“You’re good to get home?” River asks.

“I know how to order an Uber.” I give him an exasperated look.

“Text me as soon as you’re back at the dorm.”

“Yes, dad.”

“And don’t ever call me dad again.”

I laugh.

“You ready?” I ask Maisie, who nods.

---