Page 74 of Crossing Lines

“That must be difficult for both of them,” I say neutrally.

“They’ll figure it out if they really want to be together.”

I blink, taken aback for a second, unsure I heard her right. “I never would’ve pegged you as a hopeless romantic.”

“Why not?” she asks with an edge of seriousness I don’t understand.

“I’m not sure. I just got the impression that you were more cynical towards love.”

She shrugs. “I guess when I’m drunk, I like to believe that love can conquer all.”

To say I’m shocked is an understatement. I like seeing this side to Nina, the one she shows only the people closest to her. I’m honored to be included in that group.

“I like the sound of that,” I say, resisting the urge to kiss her when so many people are around.

“Now look who’s acting romantic.”

“I don’t have to act romantic. Iamromantic.”

She laughs and laughs and laughs some more. I grin, enjoying the fact that she’s enjoying herself, even if she’s making fun of me.

“You’re funny,” she says. “I like that about you.”

“I think you might be the only person in the world to call me funny.”

“I think not many people know you, then,” she counters. “Come on, let’s go play one of these games.” She waves a hand toward the arcade. “I haven’t played Pac Man in ages.”

“I just so happen to be the best Pac Man player in the room.”

“Ha, those are some lofty words. Care to wager a bet?”

“What are the terms?” I ask.

“If I beat you, you have to owe me a favor.”

“Done,” I say immediately. I don’t care about what the favor is, I’d do it, anyway. “And if I win, I get to buy a couch for the living room.”

She stares at me for a beat before laughing. “That’swhat you want?”

“Should it have been different?” I ask in confusion.

“Of fucking course. I’m basically giving you a free card to requestanythingfrom me.”

“Well, fuck.” I sigh, finally catching on to her innuendo.

She pats me on the shoulder. “Better luck next time.”

She’s so playful, so young, and I haven’t felt so out of place with a woman before now, like I’m too old to get the innuendo the first time around. I’m seriously regretting ever mentioning a couch and?—

“Don’t frown.” She traces her finger between my eyebrows. “I like that it didn’t even cross your mind. You’re the first person who’s never bet a sexual favor, and that wins you points in my book.”

I lean into her touch, starved for it, before saying, “Let’s go play, then.”

She grabs my hand and drags me to the game while her friends give us curious looks. I ignore them and the next hour passes with us trash-talking each other and touching one another at every chance we can get, reminding me of Jake and Aria. Every touch sends a zing of electricity through me.

“Food time,” Aria says, whistling to get our attention.

Nina and I look at the screen, at my high score, and she laughs. “Looks like we’re getting that couch now.”

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