Christ.
This kiss.
This girl.
I don’t know how long we stay like that—minutes, hours, lifetimes—but when I finally pull back, her lips are pink and swollen, her breathing fast. Mine’s not any better. I don’t ever remember having a kiss that felt like that before.
I rest my forehead against hers, my thumb brushing gently over her bottom lip. She’s flushed, wide-eyed, absolutely wrecked in the best way, and all because of me.
I can’t believe she’s real. Can’t believe I went on with my life for years, without noticing her, without being in her presence. Because now it feels physically impossible not to be around her.
“Was it everything you pictured?” I ask, my voice still rough.
She exhales. “Better.”
My lips twitch into a smirk. “Did your foot pop?”
She rolls her eyes and shoves my shoulder. “You ruined it.”
“Nuh uh.” I shake my head, grinning like an idiot. “Nothing could ruin that kiss, Freckles.”
Her blush deepens as she bites her lip and murmurs, “Goodnight, Austin.”
She slips inside and closes the door before I can say anything else.
I just stand there for a second, staring at the closed door, hoping it might open again. My pulse is still hammering, and my chest tight in a way that feels good. Really fucking good.
I run a hand through my hair, blowing out a breath.
I should be thinking about Cherry. Hell, I was spiraling over all this just a few days ago, conflicted as fuck.
But all I can think about is Maisie.
I don’t even know if she wants something with me, or if this meant as much to her as it did to me.
But I know whatIwant.
I want her.
More than a tutor.
More than a friend.
And I’m gonna win her over.
No matter what it takes.
24
AUSTIN
I’ve never been to a figure skating competition before, and I sure as hell didn’t expect to be walking into one on a Saturday afternoon with the entire hockey team dragging their sorry asses behind me like we’re headed into a group dental appointment.
The second we step through the arena doors, Logan groans. He yanks his hoodie over his head. “Are we seriously doing this?” he mutters, his eyes glued to the rink. “We’re watching a figure skating competition?”
I slow my steps just enough to shoot him a look over my shoulder. “Any of you say another word and you’re getting a kick to the teeth.”
Cole arches a brow. “Chill. We’re here, aren’t we?”
