Page 32 of Breaking the Rules
Emma can't know I'm reacting to her.
I can't do shit about the thoughts flitting through my head.
"You have more of that?" I motion to the jeans she's folding.
"Yeah. Everything in the second drawer."
I nod. Rise. Move into her bedroom.
It's a small place with a big bed. Crimson comforter. White sheets. Desk covered in lyrics.
But the rest of the room is empty.
The plain white walls show signs of a former life. There are poster mounts and hooks stuck in the corners, but whatever they were holding is gone.
Like she tore her room apart.
I want to know what the fuck it means.
I want to know more about her.
What the hell is wrong with me?
There are a million girls I can date. I'm not getting attached to the one who's off limits.
I pull out the second drawer. Bring it into the main room.
Emma isn't crouching over the suitcase anymore.
She's at the door.
And there's a tall guy with her.
He's got dark hair, thick glasses, and an air of intellectual superiority.
"Are you really leaving?" he asks.
"Yeah." Emma turns to me. Studies my expression.
She's asking for something.
I'm not sure what it is.
Only that this guy shouldn't be here.
He follows her gaze. "Am I finally meeting the great Brendon?"
"No, um…" She stumbles over her words.
"I'm Hunter." I hold my position. Stare him down. There's something about his posture. Something I don't like.
"Vinnie." He offers his hand.
I stay put.
He nodsno problemand turns to Emma. "What happened?" His voice is sweet. Sincere. Like he's dying for her to pour her heart out.
"Noise complaint." Emma takes a step backward. Folds her arms over her chest.
