Page 21 of Bitter Beats

I grin. This. Work. It keeps my hands busy, and my mind occupied. Plus, my bank account can use the extra padding.

Me: Sure.

Lia: It’s the dinner rush. Good tips and you’re off the clock by 8.

Me: Sounds perfect.

I pocket my phone.

Mav watches me closely, his mouth twisted. His hands are clenched into fists, and a silent fury radiates from his muscular frame.

I heave out a sigh. “I’m going to campus.”

“Are you coming home tonight?”

I shrug.

“It was your stupid rule,” he accuses.

I tilt my head. “I’ll be home later.”

“Whatever,” he mumbles, annoyed. “You do you, Mckenna.”

“I am,” I toss back, my voice hard.

The last thing I need is to confide in Mav when he’s playing nice. Whatever this is won’t last. If I willingly give him information now, he’ll use it against me later. I’ve seen this scenario play out countless times between my parents. No way in hell am I going to offer up my personal life to a man who plays hot and cold.

“Fuck.” He bangs his closed fist down on the top of the kitchen island. “Christ, but you’re stubborn.”

I snort.

“Just tell me, are you in trouble?” Mav demands.

At the unwavering concern in his tone, I freeze. Stare at him. Study him.

“What the hell are you playing at, Maverick Tate?”

He scoffs, his nostrils flaring. “Despite what you think, Mckenna, I’m not the enemy here.”

“I don’t know you,” I remind him.

“You’re living with me,” he points out.

“I don’t trust you,” I clarify.

Mav stills. His eyes widen slightly, surprise etched in his irises.

I roll my lips together, regret blooming in my stomach. Shit. Did I…hurt his feelings? I open my mouth to apologize, especially because Mav asking if I’m okay is decent of him. “Mav?—”

“No,” he interjects, shaking his head. “You’re right. I’m the fun, life-of-the-party guy. You shouldn’t trust me, Mckenna. Inthe end, I’ll only let you down.” He stalks out of the kitchen, his words hanging like a thundercloud in the vacated space.

A reminder. A warning.

A premonition.

A promise.

EIGHT

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