Page 86 of Nodus Tollens
I thought Hayes was arrogant…
“Kate, can I talk to you for a second in private?” I quickly announced before things got ugly, and James got a smack to the face. She looked ready to blow, but when she pried his hands from her waist and took a step toward me, I could sense some of her anger had alleviated. “What is going on?” I eyed her skeptically, noticing a hint of redness pop up across her cheeks.
“What do you mean?” Her mouth tilted to the side.
“You know exactly what I mean.”
Hands on my hips, I narrowed my eyes on my best friend.
“I think he likes me.” She chewed onto her bottom lip as her stare shifted towards James. Standing beside Hayes, he noticed Kate’s eyes on him and gave her wink.
“You think?” I chuckled. “Nice move by the way. The whole kissing him and pretending it was meant for someone else. Definitely innovative.”
Grinning ear to ear, she put her arm around my shoulder and pulled me in close.
“Yeah, I think that was my best work yet. I mean, look at him.” She nodded her head in James’ direction and my gaze followed. Sure enough, molten eyes were watching every move Kate made. Even as he tipped his beer bottle back, he kept his stare laser focused on her as if she might disappear.
It obvious the man was smitten by her.
“If that isn’t the face of a man obsessed, I don’t know what is.” She giggled and rested her head against mine.
“Just…be careful with him.”
I would hate to see her get hurt, but right now she was glowing. So bright, and I’d hate to have it taken from her.
“I will.” She sighed dreamily. “He asked to hang out tonight. After we leave from here.”
Pulling my head away from hers, I found her busy chewing on her bottom lip.
“And? What did you say?”
Rolling her eyes, she smiled.
“What do you think? I’ve been literally dreaming about this moment forever, Wren.”
“I know you have. But will he be okay to drive you?”
Dropping her arm from my shoulder, she reached for my hand this time.
“I told him that would be his last drink if he wanted me to leave with him.”
Grinning, I nodded. She looked so happy. So excited and although I was nervous, I also felt a flutter of eagerness for her. That this was finally happening.
“Good.” I squeezed her hand. “So, you’ll be okay if Hayes and I leave now?”
“Yeah, if I need anything I’ll just text you.” She smiled. “But I’m sure everything will be more than okay.” She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively and eventually we both said our goodbyes. After a hug and timid wave in James’ direction, Hayes and I left hand in hand with my heart galloping at a dangerous rate.
“So, where to, Blue?” Hayes asked as he pulled me tight into his side. My mind was racing with so many scenarios and endless breakdowns of what could happen tonight that I couldn’t put together any words. Not until the fear of running into Mal at their house caused my mouth to spew words.
“Anywhere.” I smiled dreamily. “We can get pizza?” I suggested as my craving for it intensified. Grinning, he gave me a knowing look as his eyes sparkled in elation.
“Yeah? Your new favorite pizza, huh?” He teased. “If that’s what you want, then I’m more than okay with that.” He whispered. “I’ll go anywhere with you.”
* * *
One large pizza and a order a breadsticks later, Hand in hand, Hayes and I made our way down the dimly lit hallway until we came to a stop at my door. The whole way up, I felt as though my heart was about to break through the confines of my chest from its increasing thumps and thrashes. The silence between us wasn’t making things any easier either. It seemed to only worsen my heightened nerves.
I wanted to invite him inside.
