Page 75 of How to Win the Girl

We both know that's not true, but I can't keep getting in his way or he's going to lose his shit, my brother—who is always so even-keeled—looks as if he's finally had enough of my nonsense.

Drew slings a bag over his shoulders and gives me one last glance before he pushes through the front door and lets it slam behind him. I wonder if something else is bothering him because he is so short with me. Yes, I'm being annoying. And yes, I'm being obnoxious. But none of this is new; I'm always annoying and obnoxious.

Always.

I hear the door to the truck open, then close.

I watch out the window as he backs down the driveway and heads to campus. My stomach roils as he drives away, filling with dread.

Shit.

This isn't going to end well.

twenty

daisy

I’m at the age when it comes to relationships where it’s like, are we doing this or not? I have shit to do.

I havebutterflies in my stomach.

All you’re doing is going to class. Relax, this is no big deal.

But Drew Colter is going to be there, and last night you…had a moment.

Had a moment? What are you, 80?

Seems like it sometimes.

I’m in the lecture hall for Mass Comm before Drew arrives, craning my neck unabashedly when he enters from the side doors, my face already lit up with a stupid smile.

Stop, Daisy, or you’re going to look too anxious.

Anxious?

Who cares!

We had a date yesterday and also, that kiss. So what does it matter if I’m smiling at the guy?

I watch as Drew Colter scans the seating and with long strides, makes his way to the other side of the auditorium, glancing around but not as if he’s looking for someone.

I was literally messaging him before we got here, right up to the point where I pulled open the door of the building.

He ignores me.

Doesn’t even turn his head in my direction to the area I normally occupy, where I’m sitting now. Not a single glance.

Is he for real?

Frustrated, I pull out my phone and send off a message.

So is this how we’re doing it, ignoring each other in public?

There. Forward and to the point, no beating around the bush.

Drew:

What do you mean?

---