Page 66 of A Pretty Fixation

It’s a wonder that I made it through practicewithout a screw-up. The second we wrap, I hurry to my dorm to shower and driveto the bistro.

I spot that nuisance, Aaron, waiting at theentrance.

No wonder he took off from the field a bit early.

What the hell is he doing here?

He just won’t leave my girl alone.

I rush out of the car. As I’m walking over, Jordynexits the bistro. Neither notices my approach.

“Hey,” Jordyn says nicely.

“I was on my way by and wanted to see how you’redoing,” Aaron says to her.

“How sweet of you,” I mock. “You like checking onwhat doesn’t belong to you, huh.”

He blows a razor-sharp breath. “Such an ass.”

“What was that?”

“Stop it.” Jordyn steps between us before I grabhim.

I cut to her, damn near grunting, “Is he thereason you were acting strange earlier?”

She sighs. “No. Aaron didn’t do anything. I wasfrustrated. Took it out on you.”

I tighten my jaw. “Frustrated about what?”

She looks down.

“Maybe it’s you,” Aaron throws at me.

That pisses me off. “It seems you have troubleunderstanding. I’ll get my point across another way.”

“Caleb, don’t.” Jordyn presses her hands at mychest, keeping me from charging him.

I glare at the prick standing behind her. “Why areyou still here?”

He throws his hands up as if exasperated. “I’llsee you, Jordyn. Hope you feel better.”

“She will,” I grit harshly. “I’ll make sure ofit.”

“Geez,” Jordyn murmurs, watching him leave. “Youdon’t have to be mean. He’s my friend. We’re partners in class.”

I inch closer. “You’re not allowed to be friendswith him. He likes you.”

She scoffs. “So possessive.”

“I am. I’m crazy for you, Jordyn. That’s whateight years of longing did to me. My emotions have intensified. There’s noreason to worry about other girls because I only see you. Only wantyou.”

Her eyes flutter at my words. She lowers her headand chews at the corner of her bottom lip.

Hooking my finger under her chin, I make her lookat me again. “Tell me what happened.”

“Nothing.” She jerks her chin away. “It’s fine.”

I ease a salted caramel peanut bar from my jeanspocket, showing it to her.

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