Page 64 of Atlas
Rue
Kasey is usually singing or talking or just generally bouncing around like a puppy. But this evening, she’s quiet. It’s worrying.
“Out with it,” I say, flopping onto my back and staring up at her bedroom ceiling. The club gave her a basic bedroom but every time I see her, I bring something to make it homely. Today’s gift was a fake plant, because she’d kill a real one. “You’re unusually quiet, and I hate it.”
“You tried to have me medicated in school because I drove you mad,” she reminds me. “You said I talked way too much.”
I smile at the memory. “You were exhausting.”
“Are you and Atlas serious?” She picks at her fingernails, keeping her eyes fixed on them like they’re suddenly the most interesting thing in the world.
“It’s been a few dates,” I say with a laugh. I’m playing it down. She doesn’t need to get attached in case it doesn’t work out, and that’s one of her downfalls, she gets attached so easily. And truthfully, I have no idea what’s going on with me and Atlas. He’s great, too great if I’m honest, and I keep waiting for the flaws to show.
After we slept together, I thought that would be the downfall, he’d suddenly ghost me and I’d be embarrassed and have to stay away from the club, from Kasey. But he was attentive after, sticking around until late when I couldn’t hide my yawns. Hetexted the second he got back to the club and video called me the following day to wish me good morning. The truth is, he’s a dream and I have to keep pinching myself to check he’s real.
“Do you like him?” she asks.
“Yeah, he’s a nice guy so far.”
“So, you think it could get serious?”
I frown. “What’s going on, Kase?”
She bites the corner of her lip, dragging it through her teeth, whilst she gathers her words. “His ex came by yesterday.”
I bristle at her words but try to hide it. “Okay. So?”
“They went to lunch together.”
“It’s not a crime,” I say with a shrug that I hope passes off as easy.
“Did he tell you about it?” she asks, eyeing me closely.
I shrug it off, shaking my head. “He doesn’t need to. I’m not his owner.”
“But if he’s with you then—”
“I never said he was,” I snap, instantly regretting it. “Sorry. It’s just, you’re reading into it too much. Me and Atlas . . . we’re, friends and—”
I glance up as he fills the doorway with a pissed expression. He arches a brow. “A word, Rue,” he states.
“I’m a little busy,” I mutter, unsure if I’m ready for him to confess all about him and Anita.
“Now,” he adds, turning in the direction of his own room and disappearing down the hall.
“Great,” I mutter, pushing to my feet.
“He looked annoyed,” Kasey points out.
I shoot her a glare. “Yes, I noticed.”
“Maybe he thought you were more?” she asks hopefully.
“I doubt it, if he was with his ex yesterday. He’s probably about to tell me he’s getting back with her.”
She sits up. “Shit. Do you want me to come with?”
I scoff. “And watch me get dumped? No thanks.”
