Page 17 of Wrecked Rose

“Why don’t we invite a few people over? Have a last hurrah before school starts back?”

“Like who?” My brows draw together, and I hope to play it off like I’m curious, but I know exactly what he’s about to say. And I’m not sure it’s such a hot idea with my current mental state.

“Oh, the usual. We can get Xander and Scar over here, Micah will call Daph, Daph will bring Max. Maybe Aria. You know how she is, though. She’s always got something else going on. But since Lyla’s been around, Aria’s been here more. They’re likeThe Odd Couple.”

“Mm. Yeah. Okay, I guess so.” I shrug.

“Don’t sound so excited.”

“I’m tired. That’s all. I’m going to hit the shower.” I slide past him and jog up the stairs. I have no idea if he bought that or not.

Chapter 11

Griff

An hour later, I make my way down to the theater room. I can tell there are a bunch of people here already from the laughter and loud talking. I stall for a few seconds outside the door.Is he here?

Fuck, this is so dumb. I roll my eyes as I let myself into the room.

They’ve already started a movie, and it’s dark inside. My eyes take a few seconds to adjust.

“Hey, Griff. We were starting to think you were having a little too much fun in the shower.” Scarlett slaps her hands over her mouth, her peal of laughter filling the room before everyone else’s follows. “Sorry! I’m teasing.”

“Thanks for that.” I shake my head, smiling as I join them on the couches.

“Actually, if you really want to know who was responsible for me saying that, Beau bet me that I wouldn’t dare.” She turns to him, holds out her hand, and demands, “Pay up, buddy.”

“Ah, pretty girl, you’re robbing me blind.” I watch for a moment as my brother pulls out his wallet and slaps a twenty in her hand.

As I scan over the rest of the group present, it’s a relief to realize Max isn’t here. My shoulders visibly relax, and I hope none of them are observant enough to notice.

Then, exactly what I’d been dreading happens. The door opens again, letting in a sliver of light. Even before I turn to see who it is, I already know it’s him.Of course it is.

My breathing automatically falters like I can’t get enough oxygen to my brain for any of the necessary functions of my body. Except one.Fuck.I watch him as he comes around to sit down and right as he does, I stand up.

“Sorry, guys. I just remembered I promised a friend I’d hang for a little. I’ll be back later.” I take off without ever acknowledging Max at all. For that matter, I don’t hear what anyone says in response to my rapid exit. All I know is this isn’t going to work for me right now. I can’t handle it.

* * *

I’ve been driving around aimlessly for well over an hour when I hear my phone vibrate a few times. Pulling into a parking space in front of the local coffee shop, I throw my Raptor into park. My jaw clenches as I hear the phone rattle again in my cup holder. I suck in a deep breath and exhale in a sharp burst and grab the phone, thumbing it open to see who’s trying to track me down.

It’s Micah. I practically melt with relief.

Micah:Yo.

Micah:Pizza and beer?

Micah:You going to be back soon?

I hesitate for a few seconds. Leaving has probably drawn more attention to my discomfort than if I’d stayed.Fuck.I rake my free hand through my hair before I tap out a response.

Me:Yeah. Was just talking to a friend who needed an ear.

Me:I’ll be back soon. Count me in for pizza.

Notbeer. Fuck no. No alcohol. No getting drunk around Max. Who the fuck knows what would happen…

What’s the matter, Griff? Still hung over from New Year’s? Still worried that you might like it too much if Max bestowed another one of his sweet kisses on your lips?

---