Page 45 of Roman & Olivia
Roman didn’t know what she was referring to. Could she see how much he liked Olivia? Was he so transparent? Shoot! That could present problems if Olivia figured that out.
Wait, what was he thinking? Everyone was supposed to think he cared for Olivia. If she started to suspect his feelings, he’d tell her he was just being a good actor. She wanted Mason. And he was beginning to realize that he was only standing in her way. No matter how much he wanted her, he wanted her to be happy more.
“I’m gonna head to the bathroom before the movie starts. Cammi, want to come with?” Thankfully, Olivia drew her roommate’s attention from Roman and saved him from having to say something.
But the second they were gone, Roman had to pretend he was fine with hanging out with Mason.
“Liv really likes old movies, huh?” Mason mused.
“Yeah. She’s into that sort of stuff.” Roman continued to stare off in the direction where the girls had gone.
“She’s pretty great.”
That caught Roman’s attention, and he turned to find Mason staring at him unblinking. It was unnerving the way he seemed to be sizing Roman up.
“How long have you two been dating?” Mason asked.
Roman cleared his throat. “We’ve… ah… it’s been… a while.”
Mason tossed him a knowing smile. “And yet nothing has come of it.”
“I wouldn’t say nothing—” Roman started.
His dismissive flick of his hand cut Roman off before his words did. “I want to be upfront with you, Roman.” Mason glanced over toward the bathrooms. “I think Olivia is more than great. She’s exceptional, and she deserves someone better than you.”
Roman fought the urge to start swinging punches. If he’d been really dating Olivia, he might have done just that. But the fact of the matter was that Olivia wanted Mason, and this relationship of theirs was only happening so she could get his affection. Roman worked his jaw, waiting for Mason to continue. Anything he might say could ruin everything he and Olivia had done to get to this point.
Mason leaned back on his palms. They were seated on a blanket in the field surrounding the large screen. Technically this place wasn’t a drive-in theatre in the typical sense. They could have stayed in their cars in the parking lot, but the grassy area was better for gaining access to the concessions. All around them, people were on dates and completely oblivious to the war that was being waged within Roman’s mind and his heart.
“I’m not going to lie. I fully intend on telling her that I’m interested. And if something comes of it?” He shrugged. “You might very well have more competition than you’re prepared for.”
Roman’s eyes narrowed. Then he scoffed and looked away. “Good luck with that.” This was exactly what Olivia wanted. She’d be thrilled when he told her what Mason had said to him. But he’d keep up the ruse for her sake.
Mason chuckled darkly. “Then may the best man win.”
Before Roman could say anything, the girls returned.
Throughout the movie, Olivia leaned into him, snuggling against him. And he allowed himself to pull her tight to his body. Tonight would be the last night he’d be able to do this—to pretend that they were something more. Because when he took her home, he’d have to tell her the truth.
Mason was ready to win her over.
Roman placedhis hand on Olivia’s back as they headed toward her door. She had been quiet on the ride home. She was still acting a little off. But maybe what he was about to say would make her feel better.
Last chance. Tell her how you feel.
Roman shoved that temptation aside. There was no way he’d tell her. Not now, not ever. She’d never forgive him if he stood in the way of love. He swallowed hard as she turned to face him.
“Roman, I need?—”
“Mason wants you.”
“—to tell you… What?” Olivia’s mouth fell open.
He rubbed the back of his neck and looked away. When he finally found the courage to meet her gaze, he gave her a small smile. “He told me he’s going to tell you how he feels. He’s interested, and he’s not afraid to be the competition.”
She sucked in a quiet, sharp breath. “He didn’t.”
“He did. Turns out he doesn’t think I’m good enough for you.” He attempted a wan smile, but it probably looked more like a grimace than anything else.
