Page 19 of Hey, Stepbro

I'd better take ten steps back and calm the hell down. Blakely and I are getting way too close too fast, and I'm not prepared for that.

"Thanks for the breakfast," Blakely says, pushing away his plate. "I should probably get going."

I frown. "Don't you want to stay for a little while? You've only had one slice."

Blakely smiles. "I'd love to, but I have a lot of work to do at the shelter. Maybe some other time."

"Sure, no problem." I try not to sound too bummed out.

Before Blakely leaves, I decide to shoot my shot. "Hey—maybe I could help you."

Slowly, Blakely turns toward me, with a cocked eyebrow. "Help me with what?"

"Whatever you need. I know you said you have a lot of work, and I'd be more than willing to lend a hand. I'm a pretty fast learner."

I hold my breath, waiting for Blakely's response.

He pauses for a moment, and then breaks into a wide grin. "That's a great offer. I'd definitely love your help, if you're serious about it."

"Of course I am," I say, relieved.

"Don't you want to know what you'll be helping me with? You may not enjoy it."

"What makes you say that?"

Blakely snorts. "You don't seem like the type... to get your hands dirty."

I grin devilishly. "Is that a challenge?"

Blakely shrugs, the epitome of nonchalance. "All I'm saying is that, if you decide to help me, you'd better be prepared to get down and dirty."

"Tell me when and where, and I'll be there."

"I volunteer at an animal shelter. My duties include cleaning animal cages, feeding animals, and providing them with basic medical care. It can get pretty messy sometimes."

Something flashes in the back of my mind.AnimalLovervolunteers in a shelter, too. And shit—we were supposed to meet at one yesterday, and I totally flubbed our appointment.

I was way too heartbroken thinking about Amanda to leave my room. I know, it's embarrassing. I was sobbing like a baby and couldn't pull myself together, even to meet my pen pal.

"How messy?" I wonder.

"Let's say you'll need to wear gloves. And an apron."

"You make it sound like a battlefield."

"It can be," Blakely says, his voice serious. "But it's also very rewarding. You get to see the animals get better and find loving homes. That's the best part."

He smiles at me, and I find myself smiling back.

I extend my hand. "Count me in."

All at once, I rise from my seat and wrap my arms around Blakely's waist. "Look, stepbro. About the other day."

Blakely's breath hitches as he stares into my eyes. "It's okay. I'm over it."

"No, it's not okay," I say, pulling away. "I came onto you way too strong. I'm going through a breakup, and I didn't want to make you uncomfortable."

Blakely smiles. "It's fine. We all have our days. Let's forget about it and move on."

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