Page 22 of Speed

Shit.

I’m bisexual for sure.

Brody:Fuck

Jemima: LOL. It’s okay. Are you with someone? Interested in someone? Do you want to call and talk?

Brody. No, yes, and no, I can’t talk right now.

I paused for a moment.

Brody:If I come out as bi, will it cause you trouble?

There wasa pause at her end.

Jemima:If I come out as poly, will it cause YOU trouble?

What?

Brody:Of course not

Jemima: Likewise

I smiled.She was so matter-of-fact and down to earth—if only things had worked out with her, then I wouldn’t be facing my existential crisis.

I wouldn’t have allowed myself to be attracted to Noah. Or fuck his hand. Or kiss him.

Brody:I met a guy

Jemima: I met a girl

Jemima: I have to go. Xxx

Jemima: Love you B

Brody: Back at ya J xx

I was drawndown to the Plexiglass surrounding the training rink, which I assumed was to stop random pucks from hitting viewers. I couldn’t help myself. It wasn’t rational, and it wasn’t planned—I found myself moving down the steps of the bleachers, closer to the ice. There was something magnetic about him, something I couldn’t resist.

I needed to be nearer to get a better look. Watching from a distance wasn’t enough—I wanted to be closer. The sharp hiss of his skates cutting into the ice echoed in the arena, and I swear, I felt it in my chest.

I stopped at the edge, my breath fogging the surface of the glass as I leaned closer, desperate to see more. He was entirely focused, his face set, and the intensity of his expression made my pulse quicken.

I needed to be closer. I needed to feel like I was in his orbit, even if he didn’t know I was there and didn’t understand why I couldn’t stay away.

I wanted him to see me.

I was desperate for it.

But he didn’t notice me at first. Blake gave me an exaggerated wave, then elbowed Noah as they broke for drinks.

Noah turned so fast I thought he’d fall on his ass, but no, he glided toward me, then stopped and indicated for me to walk to the gap near some benches.

He won’t think I’m stalking him. Right?

“You’re stalking me,” he said, his voice sharp, the accusation cutting through the air between us like a slap.

I blinked, trying to keep my expression neutral. “I’m notexactlystalking you.”

---