Page 151 of Bookworm

A lot of things actually.

My heart was brimming, nearly overflowing with feelings, and I didn't know how to deal.

Sure, I was nervous in front of the camera. But I was more scared that I'd accidentally show Bo how much I want him, so I tried to hold back, praying he wouldn't notice.Then he stepped in and made everything better.

"You okay, Kent?"

Bo's deep voice.

I opened my eyes and watched him as he walked down the aisle.

"You left pretty fast."

"I just needed a second."

"Do you want me to leave?" he said, stopping in front of me.

With a sigh, I shook my head. "No, stay. I'm the problem, Stryker, not you."

"What do you mean?"

"I'm scared, okay?"

Bo's frown deepened. "Of what?Me?"

"Yes," I said then shook my head, "and no."

He looked almost as confused as I felt.

"Honestly, I'm scared that we might not have the same chemistry as before. Then the video will be terrible, and it won't drive donations like we need it to, and I'll let everyone down."

"That won't happen," he said.

I swallowed. "ButI think I'm even more scared that we will have chemistry."

He tilted his head.

"I don't want these feelings, Stryker," I said.

Instead of giving me a look of horror or running in the opposite direction, Bo did the very last thing I expected.

He chuckled.

"Really?" I shot him a frown, but that only made him laugh harder. "You're so serious all the time, and Mr. I-Never-Smile decides to laugh now? So inappropriate."

"Sorry," he said.

"You shouldn't laugh when someone confesses their feelings," I muttered. "Even if you don't return them."

"Who says I don't?"

My eyes shot to his as Bo came closer.

"Stop right there," I said, but he shook his head, not stopping until there was only an inch of space between us. "W-what are you doing?"

"What I wanted to do five minutes ago," he said, "minus the camera and audience."

I blinked.

---