Page 15 of Riptide

Don’t back out on me now. I’m twenty, not a minor.

My heart falls into my ass as I suddenly realize something I haven’t asked, and my fingers fly across my screen.

Foxx

Please tell me you’re not a student.

Because that’s the answer I need the most.

Finn

No, I’m not. I’ve traveled the last year so. I’m doing other things right now.

As I let out a slow breath, my shoulders relax just a fraction.

Foxx

Maybe we can talk about that when I see you at The Den on Friday at 9

The typing bubble pops up, then disappears. I tap my fingers against my thigh, waiting. I don’t think I’ve ever felt an instant connection with anyone like this before.

Finn

Knew you couldn’t resist me.

I shake my head, but the smile creeping onto my face feels genuine.

Foxx

Don’t get ahead of yourself.

Finn

Oh, I plan on getting ahead. Of you, under you, on top of you…

Jesus Christ.

My pulse kicks up in my neck as I stare at the message.

Foxx

That was subtle.

Finn

I don’t believe in subtle.

Of course he doesn’t. And I like that about him. I might not need him to take the lead when we do this, but initiating it wouldn’t hurt.

My phone screen is still open, Finn’s last message glowing back at me. The room is dim, quiet, surrounding me with the kind of stillness that makes it too easy to hear my own thoughts.I feel like someone who has spent the past few years existing instead of living. For the first time in a long time, I want something.

So, I let it happen.

Foxx

See you Friday.

***