Page 31 of Collide
“Nothing, considering I’m an Econ major, but sometimes an extra pair of eyes can help.”
His earnest look kindles a warmth in my stomach. “That is really nice of you.”
“Don’t be fooled, I’ve been told I’m an asshole.”
“WHO’S SHE?” AIDEN asks.
He pestered me into taking a break, so I put on a my favorite Turkish drama to spite him. Turns out he loves it.
“That’s his ex-girlfriend. She doesn’t know about the fake engagement,” I explain.
“Shit, she’s going to see the contract.” Aiden nudges me in excitement.
The suspenseful music builds, and we wait for the big reveal. We’re sitting on the edge of the couch, the sides of our legs pressed together. Then the credits roll.
“Seriously?” Aiden groans.
“That’s how they get you.”
He’s collecting our empty containers when he chuckles. “I’m starting to get your whole stay inside and not have a life thing. It’s kind of fun.”
I scoff. “I have a life, asshole. In fact, I met up with someone last week,” I lie. Well, not entirely. Connor sat with me in the cafeteria. It’s the closest thing to a date I’ve had all year. Pathetic, I know.
“Who?”
“Connor Atwood.”
He makes a noise in his throat. “What can you possibly have in common with Atwood?”
“You know him?” Of course he did. They were both athletes, and the captains of their team.
“Yeah. The dude’s at every party, and he’s been with his fair share of girls. Now, apparently one of them is you.”
I immediately backtrack. “I haven’tbeenwith him. We just studied together.”
He cocks his head. “That’s your type, huh? Football players.”
“Player. Singular. But, no, I’m still figuring out what my type is.”
“You keep working on that,” he says. “I’m going to take off. I’ll see you Thursday at the pool.”
I hide the satisfied smile that tries to break free. I wasn’t sure if my paper was helping him, but Aiden started taking a day off and swimming for one workout. It feels like a big accomplishment.
I stand too. “Wait, I'll walk you out. I just have to change.”
“For what?” he asks, but I’m already in my room changing into a random pair of leggings and a sports bra. I walk out with my sneakers in hand, slipping them on by the door.
“Where are you going?”
“For a run,” I say, gesturing for him to exit.
“Now?”
“I didn’t have time this morning.” I lock the door behind us, then check for my pepper spray and keychain alarm as Aiden stares at me.
“You shouldn’t be running alone this late.”
I almost laugh, but his expression is so serious I hold it. “Thanks for the concern, but I can handle it.”
