Page 196 of Hooking Up

---

"She was drunk and miserable. I offered to let her ride Prince Albert—"

Walker scrunches his nose in disgust. "You did not fucking say that."

Dean laughs. "No. I didn't. But I did offer to fuck her. And she started crying about how she wasn't gonna be with anyone until she was with someone she loved. And it slipped out."

Walker shakes his head. "You're full of shit."

"Not this time. Fucking sucks for Leigh, 'cause she doesn't have a chance."

"She's a babe."

"You're saying that in front of your girl?"

I laugh. Sorta. It's more a laugh gasp for air combo. "No, she's a babe."

"I've said too much already." Dean holds his hands upmy work here is done.

Walker shakes his head. "You're so full of shit." He hits pause on his treadmill, hops off, motions to the water fountain in the back.

I nodgo aheadthen look to Dean.

"He's really into you," Dean says.

"I'm really into him."

"Yeah." His gaze goes to the street. "I'm glad."

"You are?"

"Yeah. Leighton will hang more if you're around. And she's so fucking fun to tease."

"You're really not into her?"

"I'd fuck her, yeah. But I'm not into anyone."

"Ever?"

"Nobody since I was into that chick fromThe OC. Damn, that was back in middle school. Or was it high school?"

"Which one?"

"Fuck if I remember her name." The teasing tone drops from his voice. "Is shit okay with Bree?"

"I don't know. I think it will be. He tell you anything?"

"Not yet."

"His parents agreed to put their foot down about rehab."

Dean's eyes turn down. "Not the first time."

"Oh."

"I know you think I'm a dick. I am. But I don't want to see her tear his heart to shreds again. If something happens, let me know."

"I will."

"It guts him every time she slips."

---