Page 111 of Breaking Rules

“Three times?” Jess blinks in confusion. “What do you mean?”

I huff a little laugh. “I met her at Xander’s house last week. We sat together at the game on Sunday. This party makes three.”

“Oh.” Jess briefly looks over my shoulder before focusing on me again. “Looks like I asked the wrong question. How long have you known Alex?”

“Three months.”

Eyes twinkling, she says, “Three is your lucky number, isn’t it?”

I chuckle. “You could say that, yes.”

“Are you and Alex a thing?” She arches a curious brow.

“No,” I reply truthfully. “We’re friends.”

“Audrey is so overprotective of him. Has she threatened you about hitting on him yet? She once told me she’d never speak to me again if I tried.”

A thread of jealousy weaves its way through me. “Are you interested in him?”

“I thought I was once.” She smirks. “Audrey and I grew up together, so I’ve known him forever. He’s a few years younger than me, but when he turned eighteen it was hard not to let myself think about it. He never showed any interest in me, and he’s picky, especially when it comes to women. So if he calls you a friend, it means he likes you.”

“I’ll take your word for it.”

We chat for a few more minutes before someone calls her name and she excuses herself.

As she walks away, I heave a sigh, not knowing what to do next. From the sound of things, dinner will start soon, but for now I occupy myself by looking around.

I take in all the small details of the house. The place looks wonderful, full of light and thoughtful choices. It’s a rustic design based on wood accents, lots of modern furniture mixed with natural materials, and a neutral color scheme. It’s beautiful and cozy, oozing comfort, and it immediately eases my anxiety a little.

When I come across the bathroom, I lock myself inside and splash some water on my cheeks, avoiding my eyes so my mascara doesn’t run. After I’m finished, I take a cleansing breath and open the door.

A figure looming in the hallway startles me, and I yelp.

“Xander?”What’s he doing here?

Arms crossed, he gives me a once-over, and that familiar lopsided grin forms on his lips.

“How do you like it?” He lifts his chin, gesturing to the bathroom behind me, his eyes sparkling playfully.

“It’s beautiful. The same neutral colors as the rest of the house.”

“What do you think about Jess? I saw you talking to her.”

“She’s nice.”

He only nods in response, not taking his eyes off me.

Shoulders pulled back, I step closer. “Can you please move? I want to go back to the terrace.”

“No.”

I huff, annoyance spilling in my veins. Twenty minutes ago, he acted like he barely knew me; now he won’t let me walk away? I press my hands to his chest, making him keep his distance. “Back off. I’m not in the mood.”

He cocks an eyebrow as an amused smirk lifts his lips. “Why should I?”

“Your reaction to my presence spoke volumes.”

“Forgive me, Bella, but your reaction to my reaction also speaks volumes.” He looms closer and leans against the doorframe. “My sister set us both up—she loves to meddle. I didn’t know she invited you, and I’m thinking you thought I did. Am I right?”

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