Page 53 of The Art of Us by Symone

“The only thing I know about you. That you have a problem with being touched.”

“What did Mr. McNeil say?” he asks.

I lean my head back against the seat. “That he’s happy you’ll keep your hands to yourself.”

“Huh.”

I consider his sister and ask, “Where’s Britney?”

“Giving me privacy. Brit’s driving with Eric from now on.”

“Privacy?” I snort in wonder.

Silence engulfs us.

“What do you want in a relationship?” he questions out of nowhere. “Are you into spontaneity? Eating lunch together in the cafeteria? Dinners with our families? Shopping?”

I cluck my tongue. “Doesn’t matter because we’re not together. You didn’t ask.”

Brandon huffs in his frustration. “Why are you pretending as if you’re not into me? You’re always staring at me with desire in your eyes.”

“I do not,” I argue, though weakly.

He smirks and looks over for a fleeting moment. “You’re doing it right now, little artist. Also, don’t think I forgot you said I’m hot.”

“Ugh.” I fold my arms and stare out the window, twisting my mouth. He’s right. I do have this gnawing desire for him. But at the same time, I don’t think I should want this troubled guy.

We don’t utter another word for the remainder of the drive to school.

I storm from the car the instant he parks in the lot.

Brandon catches up to me in the hallway, leaving room between us.

Gosh, he smells invigorating. It’s hard to describe the scent, but it provokes a naughty urge in my body that wants to draw closer and explore.

“Running away from me, little artist?” he teases.

I snap out of it and reclaim my armor. “What is that, your term of endearment?” I eyeball him. “That would sound sweet coming from someone else.”

A dark shadow crosses his face. “I was being sweet. But clearly, you like pushing my buttons.”

I suck my teeth and continue walking.

Sam and Rajid are standing by my locker, waiting for me.

“Morning, guys,” I greet, trying to act normal.

“Hey, Kayla.” Sam harrumphs as she glances at Brandon. He’s lurking near me like a predator.

Rajid glares at him.

Sam lifts her brows, curious about the situation.

I shrug and open my locker.

“So, Kayla,” Rajid begins. “Uh, want to hang out with us on Saturday?”

“Oh, I—”

---