Page 61 of Bewitch

“I’m going. You don’t have to tell me twice.”

“I already told you to go.”

“Yes, well, you were being my counselor. I didn’t want to be rude.”

“Because talking about assholes is polite.”

“You make a good point. On that note, I’m off. Have a great weekend, Lucas.”

He lifts his eyebrows. “Are you not planning on coming in tomorrow?”

I hesitate. “I’ll be in. If for whatever reason I can’t make it, I’ll text.”

“Or just not show up because you’ll be passed out drunk.”

“I don’t drink to that point ever,” I assure him. “If I don’t want to come in, it’ll be because I’m too tired.”

“Too tired because of taking some random guy to bed.”

“You sure seem to be obsessed with talking to me about how much I’m getting,” I say mildly.

He grunts and motions for me to leave.

So I do.

CHAPTER18

Brooke is beyond thrilled that I’m going to a party. She helps to style my hair, and I put on makeup, trying for a smoky eye look that I’ve never quite managed to learn how to create. Hopefully, the lights won’t be too bright at the party.

I invite Brooke and our suitemates to come along. Brooke says she and Declan might show up later, and Kaylie offers to drive. She got herself a new set of wheels, and she loves any and every excuse to drive anywhere.

When we arrive, the party is already in full swing. Chloe practically tackles me for a hug and introduces me to a few people before she’s pulled away to continue hosting. It’s a minefield, trying to make my way inside the house. So many people are outside on the front lawn, in the back, in the pool. I’m almost shocked by how many people are inside the house.

“Hey, what’s your poison?” a guy asks me. He holds up a red Solo cup.

“Ah, I’m good,” I tell him.

“Are you sure?” he presses.

I eye him. “I’ll let you know if I change my mind.”

He winks at me and pours himself some punch by dunking the cup into the bowl. He takes a long gulp. “It’s good.”

“Jungle Juice?” I guess.

“Yep. You can’t even taste the alcohol in it.”

“Yeah, and that’s why I’m passing.” I smile.

“You want to keep your wits about you. Smart. Some of the guys here might want to take advantage. If you want, I happen to have some time. Could serve as a… bodyguard of sorts.”

“Hmm. I don’t think I need a bodyguard.”

“No?” He looks me up and down and slowly nods. “You’re going to want to be careful.”

“I’ll be fine,” I assure him. “I’m here with friends.”

“And they are…”

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