Page 57 of Breaking Rules

“You’re not what?” He shifts an inch closer. “Did you ask him about Cindy?”

Unease washes over me. “I did, and I told him what you said about her.”

“Oh.” He lifts his chin. “That explains why he’s been so hostile toward me.”

My unease turns into dread.Dammit. Once again, I’ve caused problems for someone who has been kind to me. All I wanted was for Jake to tell me the truth. I didn’t realize he’d retaliate?—

“Don’t look at me like that. Miller and I went through a lot of shit in college, so his little tantrum didn’t bother me at all. Besides, we’re good now. We’re in sync on the field. That’s what matters. Seriously, Bella, don’t worry about it.” The smile he gives me is meant to be reassuring, I’m sure, but it does nothing to calm the storm in my chest. “Anyway,” he says. “What did he say about Cindy?”

I clear my throat. “He claimed he couldn’t remember who she was, then swore that even if he did sleep with her, it was before me.” Lungs tight, I take a moment to force a deep inhale. “He said he isn’t cheating on me, that I was being ridiculous.”

Xander frowns, his foot tapping the floor. “Wait, so he said he didn’t remember her, told you he didn’t cheat on you, and that’s it? You believe him?”

With a nod, I pick up a napkin, needing an excuse to avoid his scrutiny.

“Do you realize how wrong this is?”

My stomach sinks. “Xander, don’t.”

“Miller is?—”

“It’s none of your business.” Teeth gritted, I stand.

He jumps to his feet too, the corners of his mouth tugged down. “But?—”

I scoff. “There are no buts.” Cursing myself and him, I stalk to the front door.

This was a mistake, one I keep making over and over.

“You’re not going anywhere when you’re upset like this.” He catches my elbow and whirls me around.

Anger boils in my veins. “Says who?” I pull my elbow out of his grip.

“Bella, please,stay.” His voice softens. “I-I’m trying to show you that I’m here for you no matter what. You rarely talk about yourself. Do you realize that? Tonight was the first time you opened up about the things you enjoy. You clearly don’t like being in the spotlight, and I don’t think you mind being alone, but you’re lonely. Opening up would be good for you. Like I said last time I saw you—sometimes it’s easier to talk to people we aren’t close with.”

“You’re not the first person to tell me that, but in the end, no one stays.” The words spill out before I can stop them.Dammit. I swore I wouldn’t be vulnerable like this again. I suck in air, trying to push the tears away. Why am I crying in front of him?Oh my God.

Xander cuts the distance between us and takes my face in his palms. “I will stay. I’ll be here whenever you need me. Iamyour friend.”

For a long moment, he holds my gaze, exuding calm and focus. The heat of his skin on mine is like a brand, but I don’t pull back. Everything about him—his voice, his stance, the sincerity in his expression—makes me believe him. The realization shakes me to the core.

I wrap my arms around his torso and hide my face in his chest. Closing my eyes, I inhale and hold my breath. His sandalwood and cinnamon scent surrounds me, filling me with an unfamiliar feeling of comfort.

With his arms around me, he rests his chin on the top of my head. “You don’t have to tell me your secrets if you aren’t ready, but don’t close yourself off out of fear you won’t be understood. Sometimes, just talking about things helps.”

“Another tip from your therapist?” I ask.

He huffs a laugh. “No, it’s all me. I’m just that awesome.”

Slowly, I untangle myself from him. He lets me, taking a step back and smiling at me gently.

I can’t help but smile back.

“Finally.” He ducks a little so our eyes are level. “Do you feel better?”

I nod.

“Good. I knew my cuddles would have that effect.”

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