Page 110 of The Manny

Heat filled my cheeks. “You’re crazy.”

“No, I’m not.”

I grimaced. “I’m handling it.”

“You actually do have the hots for someone?” He frowned. “Who is this bastard?”

“None of your business.”

“Oh, really? How come you get to butt into my personal life?”

“You texted me and told me what happened. You asked for my advice.”

“True.” He sighed. “Still, I want to know how someone slipped in and got to you, when I’ve been trying for years.”

“How about we change the subject?”

He chuffed. “How about you just tell me what I want to know? Who is this guy?”

“Like I said, none of your business.”

“Tell me,” he growled. “I tell you everything.”

“Yeah, whether I ask or not.”

He laughed. “Come on, Jack. What does it hurt? Everyone needs to talk sometimes.”

“Not me.”

“Liar.”

I lifted one shoulder but didn’t elaborate.

“Pretty please,” he urged. “I’m a good listener. You wouldn’t know that because I never shut up or stop talking about myself.” He laughed. “But I actually am insightful, when I bother.”

“I’ll take your word for it.”

“Please do.” He leaned forward. “Talk to me. Who is this guy you have a thing for? Why can’t you just be with him?”

“I don’t want to be with anyone.”

“Why?”

“You know why.”

He studied me. “I remember you once said you don’t crave companionship. Has that changed?”

“No.”

But I do crave Thomas.

“Then why are you pining for this guy? Will he not sleep with you unless you give him a ring or something?”

I grimaced. “I thought I said I didn’t want to talk about it?”

“Yeah, you did say that. I’m ignoring you.” He smirked. “Tell me, why can’t you just be with this guy?”

“Jesus, you’re as relentless as usual.”

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