Page 26 of Changing the Play

I kind of expected outright denial and I’m not sure how to deal with the fact that it’s… not that. He’s acting like it wouldn’t bother him at all if that’s what people thought. I swallow hard. “That’s not what I said at all.”

He leans forward, bracing his arms on the table. His expression turns serious. “If it’s making you uncomfortable, we can go somewhere else.”

Jeez. I really do sound like a spoiled brat. “No,” I say, forcing myself to calm down. “No. It’s fine. I’m sorry for being difficult.”

He watches me for a second before he sighs. It sounds oddly disappointed, and it makes my stomach sink. “Would it botheryou, Darcy? Is that what this is?” He leans a little closer, lowering his voice. “I know I’m probably not the type of person you usually associate with. If being out with me is embarrassing you, we can leave.”

Embarrassed… ofhim? Of all the ways I thought he would interpret what I said, I never guessed it would be that. “No,” I breathe. “No, West. I—I’m not embarrassed by you at all. I just—I don’t want people to talk and mess up your reputation.”

West’s nose scrunches up. “My reputation? Darcy, I don’t give a fuck what people think of me. What are they gonna do? Make jokes about my sexuality? Okay. Who cares? I don’t. I’ll only care if someone hurtsyou.”

My heart stutters in my chest, my breath getting caught in my lungs. He doesn’t want someone to hurtme? He doesn’t even care what people think of him hanging out with me. He doesn’t care if someone gets the wrong idea. He just doesn’t want me hurt. I’m not sure how to feel about that. “I’m sorry,” I repeat.

He gives me his usual easy grin. “Don’t be sorry. Let’s just enjoy our dinner, okay?”

I look up from my textbook when my phone buzzes, and pick it up.

I can’t help but smile at the text message from West.

West

Fuck yes. I got an A- on my unit test.

Me

That’s so amazing!So proud of you.

West

Couldn’t have done it without you! Cookies and football tonight at my place?

It’s been two weeks since our celebration dinner and while things have gone somewhat back to normal as far as my behavior, it hasn’t gotten any easier to be around him. He’s just so… much. Loud and alive and thrilling. He’s fun. And he makes me feel fun too. And he’s got me addicted to those fudge brownie cookies and football, so I already know I’m going to say yes.

Me

Of course. What time?

West

I’m free now. We only have one more week until live games start. We’ve got to make sure you’re good to go.

I glance around at my work. There’s nothing here that needs to be done right now, and if I’m being honest with myself, I’d much rather spend time with West than study. I’m starting to feel bad, though. Like my little crush is getting out of hand. I know it will end in heartbreak—probably my own—and ruin our friendship, but I can’t help but want to soak up his presence in any way I can.

Me

On my way.

West

Hell yes! Ordering cookies now.

By the time I make it to West’s, I’m passing the cookie guy in the hall. He gives me a little wave, telling me to enjoy. I almost laugh—him knowing who I am tells me more than anything how frequently I’m at West’s place. And also how often we order cookies.

When I get to his door, I knock, but don’t wait for him to answer before I step in. That was the wrong choice. “Oh, crap.” I turn my back, quickly facing the door, my heart racing.

West’s warm laughter echoes from behind me. “Are you good, Darcy?”

“Uh-huh, yes.” I take a deep breath, trying to keep my mind from picturing the way West is standing there in only his briefs. “Um, why are you naked?”

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