Page 42 of Easton

Man, I am so fucked.

The party is fun. I’m having a good time. One thing I’m particularly enjoying is that I’ve caught Easton sneaking peeks at me so many times tonight.

But the way he’s looking at me now from across the room is taking my breath away.

It’s not just a look of lust this time.

It’s…it’s…

Could it belove?

And if it is, why does that make my heart fill with such joy?

Could I love him too?

Of course I do. He’s my best friend.

But do Ireallylove him?

Have I fallen in love with Easton?

“I think you know the answer to that,” Madison says, jarring me back to reality and scaring the living daylights out of me.

Shit, did she just read my thoughts?

Or worse yet, did I say something out loud?

Fearing the latter, I ask her, “What are you talking about?”

She huffs, knowing I wasn’t listening, then she says, “I was telling Shane here about how you and Easton are planning to visit the children’s hospital soon, and he asked which day you’re going.”

Phew!

So she didn’t read my thoughts. Nor did I unintentionallydivulge them. But it is pretty sad that I didn’t even realize Shane was standing next to her.

“Oh, hey.” I give him a little wave. “I didn’t even see you there.”

Chuckling, he says, “Hi, Claire.”

I catch Madison rolling her eyes, but I ignore her.

Focusing on Shane, I say, “We’re going to the hospital on Monday.”

“Ah, perfect. I was just telling Madison that I have some signed stuff that I’d love to donate. If you want, I can bring it to practice Monday morning and give it to Easton.”

Wow, that is so nice of him.

“That would be wonderful,” I reply. “Thank you.”

“It’s my pleasure,” he says. “I’m happy to help.”

Shane seems like a genuinely decent dude. Even now, he’s not flirting with Madison or me. He’s just talking to us like we’re all old friends.

I’m glad he’s the one who came over to chat and not Lennox. I don’t have to worry about him hooking up with my friend.

The night continues to go well.

After Shane leaves, Easton comes over to spend some time with us. We all end up sitting on high-backed chairs in a little alcove on one side of the living room, where we drink some wine.

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