Page 25 of The Good Student

"What?" She grins, unrepentant. "Jake told me everything. Well, noteverything—but enough. You're not exactly subtle with those hickeys."

My hand flies to my neck, and Monica bursts out laughing.

"Made you check! But seriously, I'm happy for you. Even if it means I owe Jake twenty bucks."

"You bet on my love life?"

"Of course we did. Jake said you'd crack within a month. I gave you at least until summer." She shrugs. "You always were stubborn."

Before I can respond, a commotion breaks out near the drinks table. Asher stands there, having apparently just defeated someone at a shotgun challenge, arms raised in victory while the crowd chants his name.

His eyes find mine across the room, and his triumphant grin softens into something more private. He weaves through the crowd, high-fiving people as he passes.

"Your boyfriend's quite the showoff," Monica observes.

"Tell me about it," I mutter, but I can't keep the fondness from my voice.

Asher reaches us, slightly breathless. "Hey," he says, eyes bright with victory and something else. "Remember this spot?"

I glance around, realization dawning. "Maybe."

"And you thought I was looking at your friend," Asher laughs, sliding an arm around my waist. "As if."

"In my defense," I say, leaning into the touch, "I thought I was straight."

"And now?" Asher challenges, eyebrows raised.

I grin, pulling him closer. "Now I know better."

Monica makes a gagging noise. "And that's my cue to leave. Use protection, children!"

As she walks away, Asher leans in close to my ear. "Want to go make out on the terrace? For old times' sake?"

I laugh, feeling lighter than I have in years. "Lead the way."

THE END

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