She nods slowly. “Oh right, I forgot. Tyler was so weird last night. He punched a guy, Lucas.”
I was surprised when she said that last night, “I don’t understand, why?”
“I don’t know. I didn’t see the whole thing. The guy was kissing Dani, and the next second Tyler punched him. Dani swears they’re not hooking up or anything, but… I don’t know why he’d do that.”
“Huh. I’ll check in with him. That’s not like him.” I scratch the scruff on my chin. “Anyway. How are you feeling?” I slide the paracetamoltoward her. “Here, if you need them.”
“Yeah, that would be great. I don’t think I’ve drunk that much in a looong time. I didn’t do or say anything stupid, did I?” She cringes and covers her eyes.
She didn’t. She was cute as hell. She doesn’t need to be embarrassed around me.
Then her eyes drop to the shirt she’s wearing—and widen.
“Did we…? Did you dress me?”
“To be fair, you didn’t do anything stupid. But yes, you asked me to shower you. You started to fall asleep, so I helped. I swear I didn’t look. Nothing happened.”
She exhales, relieved. “Oh. Thanks. Thanks for it all.” She rubs her temples. “It’s coming back in flashes. I was an idiot, and you were amazing. Fuck. I’m never drinking again.”
Danielle stumbles in and collapses on the couch. “Mefucking too,” she groans. She looks like hell.
“That’s what everyone says until the next time,” I tease.
I grab the gift off the bench. “Also—this is for you, Cam. Sorry it’s late but I only found out it was your birthday at 3 a.m. Happy belated birthday.”
“Lucas, you didn’t have to do that. But thank you anyway. The flowers are beautiful—orchids are my favourite. And what’s this?” She shakes the small box beside her ear.
“Just open it,” I grin.
She lifts the lid, and gasps. Her fingers trace the thin golden chain necklace and the delicate amethyst crystal pendant in the center.
“Lucas… This is… it’s beautiful. So thoughtful. Amethyst, for February?” I nod and her eyes well up with tears. “Fuck. Ignore me. I’m emotional because I’m hungover. Just—thank you.”
She walks over and wraps her arms around me. I breathe her in as she rests her head against my chest.
“You’re so welcome. It was my pleasure.”
Danielle groans from the couch. “Lovely. Now my present looks cheap. But hey, at least we got drunk and had fun.”
Her head falls back again and her eyes close. We all laugh.
Camille looks up at me, her beautiful blue eyes still glossy.
I canfeelhow much this meant to her.
31
Balance
I wake up the next morning still feeling the lingering effects of yesterday’s hangover—and a fresh wave of embarrassment. The night is a little blurry, but I remember most of it. Lucas was a complete gentleman. Of course he was.
And honestly? My crush on him is getting out of hand. But can you blame me?
One—he’s super attractive.
Two—our chemistry is insane.
And three—he’s literally the kindest, most thoughtful guy I’ve ever met.
