Page 81 of Hey, Stepbro

"Earth to Blakely," Waxley drawls, snapping me back to reality. "Come on, let's keep going."

"Smart thinking," I say, shaking my head to clear my thoughts. "What's next on our agenda?"

"Well, first," Waxley smirks, nudging me playfully, "I want to know how your relationship with Brock is going. You two have been inseparable lately."

The mention of Brock sends warmth flooding through me, and I smile widely. "It's been wonderful. He's so caring and attentive, and we've grown even closer since we started dating."

"Ah, stepbro love," Waxley sighs dramatically, placing a hand over his heart. "I'm happy for you. You deserve all the happiness in the world."

"Thanks. And what about you? Any new romantic prospects?" I ask.

"Well, I went on another date last week, but it was terrible. I couldn't stop thinking about Justin."

"Justin?" I raise an eyebrow, recalling the way Brock's smoking hot football bestie flirted with Waxley at the vegan burger place. "Have you talked to him about how you feel?"

Waxley shakes his head, uncertain. "Not yet. I don't know if he's interested or if he even knows I exist."

"You're an amazing person, and if Justin doesn't see that, then it's his fucking loss."

"Maybe I'll talk to him soon. Who knows? Maybe we'll end up being as adorable as you and Brock."

"Good luck with that," I say, laughing.

"Justin is playing a central role in my fantasies."

"You’ve sooooo got a crush, buddy."

"Yes, I have a crush on Justin. He's so... alluring. There's something about him that turns me on."

"Smitten kitten." I chuckle, enjoying the blush that creeps up Waxley's cheeks. His embarrassment is endearing. It's been a while since he's shown genuine interest in someone who he didn't only want to "wreck" him, and I'm glad to see him opening up.

"Shut up," Waxley mutters good-naturedly, swatting my arm.

Just then, the low rumble of an engine catches our attention. We both turn to see a sleek, black limousine pulling up next to the campus café.

My heart skips a beat when the door opens and Brock steps out, looking like a dream come true. His muscular frame fills the doorway, and his blue eyes lock onto mine, sending shivers down my spine.

"Is that... for you?" Waxley asks, his voice filled with disbelief as he stares at the limo.

"Looks like it," I say, my mouth going dry as Brock walks towards us.

In his arms, he carries an enormous bouquet of flowers, their vibrant colors contrasting beautifully with his tanned skin. The sight makes my heart swell, warmth spreading through my chest.

"Hey Blakely." Brock’s grinning from ear to ear. "Got a little surprise for you."

"Surprise" doesn't even begin to cover it. I glance over at Waxley, who looks as stunned as I feel. But, seeing Brock standing there, holding those flowers for me, I melt.

This is only one of the many reasons I've fallen so hard for him—his thoughtful gestures never cease to amaze me.

I try to play it cool despite the butterflies in my stomach. "What's all this?"

"You'll see." He hands me the bouquet with a wink. The scent of the flowers fills my senses, and I breathe in deeply.

"Wow, these are beautiful. Thank you."

Brock’s eyes warm with affection. "Coach was giving me hell at practice yesterday," he confesses as he runs a hand through his hair, looking slightly sheepish. "But I couldn't stop thinking about you."

"Oh, no." My lips tremble at the confession, and I gnash my teeth.

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