Page 83 of I Can't Help It

Meanwhile, I crack open my “super official” black notebook and write down my thoughts about the local bar-and-grill that we went to for dinner last night. Ava swore they had some of the best chicken nuggets she’s ever eaten, and I really liked my shrimp pasta bowl, so I’d definitely recommend the restaurant. As for the evil cycling class we took today…

It’s probably a better option for people who’ve had previous experience.

After I finish with my work notes, I flip the other section of my notebook. The section that’s all about—

My phone buzzes again, and I lean over to check it.

Ava.

Oh good, she didn’t ignore my text.

Ava: We can if you want. It’s fine either way.

She also sends a heart emoji, and I can feel myself calming down. A heart emoji doesn’t mean she isn’t upset with me, but it’s definitely a positive. Right? Or am I delusional?

Me: Okay, I’m finishing up in my room and then I’ll head to the lobby.

Ava: Sounds good.

Ava: I’m almost done too.

The notebook can wait.

I pocket my phone and leave the room without sparing a second, but then I freeze after closing my door behind me. Apparently, the odds of us being on the same floor as Wyatt aren’t that slim. He’s coming out of a room farther down across the hall.

Seriously? Can’t a guy catch a break?

His blue eyes spot me immediately. “Luke? What the—” He laughs before attacking me with a hug. “What are you doing here? I thought you had that on-site visit?”

“This is my on-site visit.” My voice is grim as I give his back two awkward pats. “I didn’t know you’d be here, though. What’s up with that?”

“Maren planned the whole thing with Tris,” he drawls, taking a step back, “and I thought it would be fun to tag along. We’re all in the same room though, and Tris is already trying to make rules for me. Like, she says I can’t sleep shirtless because it’s unnecessary and indecent.” He proceeds to scoff. “She’s ridiculous.”

Before I can try to offer any kind of response, he continues talking. “I saw Ava earlier in the lobby and she told me that she’s here for work too. Are you guys doing the on-site visit together?”

He doesn’t sound or look suspicious, just curious.

Typical Wyatt.

He’s probably wondering why I didn’t tell him that I was going on a work trip with his ex-girlfriend. I know I would be wondering.

“Uh, yeah. Colton decided to have Ava come with me as a last-minute addition.”

He nods. “Makes sense. Ava has done a lot of on-site visits. She used to tell me all about them.”

That one little comment totally rubs me the wrong way. However, I keep my sour feelings at bay.

“Yep. She’s a pro with on-site visits.”

Okay, so maybe a little sourness escapes.

“Man, you should’ve told me that you guys were going to be here.” He gives my arm a light shove. “Seeing Ava after all these months was so weird. But it was also kind of nice…ya know?”

Seeing Ava is very nice. However, hearing Wy say that just makes me want to beat the crap out of him.

Chill out, Luke. He’s still your best friend.

“Where did Ava disappear to, anyway?” Wyatt asks, looking around. “She was getting a heating pad from the front desk when I saw her, and I wanted to make sure she was okay. I remember that she would use one of those if her period cramps were really bad.”

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