Page 16 of Face Me Off

“That’s okay. I’m sure you two have tons to catch up on.”

“Another time, then.” He smiles that lopsided grin that makes that sexy dimple pop before turning away.

As he leaves, I find myself staring at his retreating back. What am I doing? This isn’t going to end well, yet I’m drawn in all the same.

Ryan’s a smart guy. He surely figured out what Becky alluded to.

He just gained the upper edge, and I need to find a way to regain it back.

CHAPTER SEVEN

MADISON

“A pretty girlshouldn’t be without a drink.”

My gaze lands on the fraternity president and down to the red liquid sloshing on the sides of the cup in his hand.

“Thanks.” I take the drink and force a smile. There’s no way that drink is coming near my lips. I don’t care if we previously fucked; I am not drinking anything out of an open container.

“I made it myself.” Jim winks. I’m not sure if it’s for reassurance or what, but his confession doesn’t do him any favors. He’s known for his potent concoctions. “Who are you here with?”

“Waiting on Becky.” I scan the crowded living room. People sway to the pulsating beats, others shouting over the noise, but no sign of my so-called friend. “She should be here any second.”

“Jim! Assistance floor one,” a voice calls from behind.

Jim gives him a nod and turns back to me. “Duty calls, but come find me later, yeah?” He waggles his eyebrows, which causes me to shake my head.

“Not happening, buddy.” Tonight or any other night, for that matter. He and I hooked up freshman year. Let’s just say it was less than thrilling. For me, at least.

“You’re going to want another ride. Sooner or later.”

My phone buzzes, thank God. I pull it out of my jeans pocket and shoo him away. “You’re not living in reality again.”

His laugh is contagious as he disappears into the crowd. I glance down at my text.

Becky: Sorry, Madds, I can’t make it.

I force my jaw closed. Great. I’m at a frat party by myself. I knew better than to agree to meet her here. Instead of firing off a text, I dial her number and move to the far corner of the room. The music is still thumping, but I can at least hear the ringtone. I’m surprised when she picks up.

“What do you mean you’re not coming?” I fire off.

“Don’t be mad. But I have a date.”

“A date?” I check the time on my phone. I’ve been waiting for her to show up for the past hour.

“One that you made within an hour?”

“I know. It sounds weird, but I ran into this guy when I stopped at the store on the way. He’s so hot and gives off big dick energy.”

“Seriously?” My tone is condescending, but I get it. After experiencing it, I’ve found out good dick is hard to find. I never knew that was a real thing until him.

I want to scream. Stupid Ryan. He screwed me over again!

“You know how difficult it is to meet people. Forgive me?”

Jesus. I can see her pouty lip through the phone. Letting out a sigh, I reluctantly nod even though she can’t see me. This is too much like the past when she stood me up at prom. The very one I thought Ryan would ask me to, but he asked Jade instead.

“You’re repeating past behaviors.”

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