“Oops.”
I pull on my sweatshirt and grab Starlight Twinkle, tucking her protectively under my arm as I sling my bag over my other shoulder.
Quinn sputters, at a loss for words, which, I’m pretty sure, is a first.
“See you around, sweetheart.”
24
QUINN
I crossthe elegant lobby and head straight for the elevator, head down, purse clutched in my hands. I can’t say with certainty, but I’m pretty sure it’s a close approximation of the walk of shame. Realistically, I know there’s not a soul in the hotel who knows why I’m here, but the knowledge does little to quell my raging nerves.
There might as well be a flashing light over my head that says ‘I’m here for sex.’
My palms sweat as I press the up button at the elevator bank. An older couple wearing white Wildcat jerseys join me, offering polite smiles.
“That was some game,” the man says, shaking his head. “Best Homecoming game I’ve seen in ages.”
I nod, silently willing the elevator to hurry. It was a goddamn nail biter, but the Wildcats managed to punch one in as the clock ran out, pulling off the win against Ohio. Normally such a close game would’ve had me losing my mind, but football is the least of my concerns today.
The elevator finally arrives and there’s a quietdingas the doors glide open.
When the passengers exit, I hurry inside and push the button for the third floor. Frat Boy Yoda texted the room number earlier, which was a relief since I’d rather not suffer through an uncomfortable meeting in the lobby, surrounded by strangers.
And yet you’re meeting a stranger for sex?
Whatever. I never said my logic was foolproof.
I turn to the older couple, desperate to focus on anything but my impending hookup, and they confirm they’re also going to three.
Perfect.
It’s a short, awkward ride, but it feels interminable. When the doors finally slide open, my feet are cemented to the floor.
Oh, God.What if he’s gross and I can’t go through with it? Or worse, what if he’s not attracted to me and he bails? I’m not sure my ego can take another rejection.
Why the hell did I ever think this was a good idea?
It’s not too late to back out.
I could ride the elevator right back down to the lobby and walk out, with my dignity and my virginity intact.
“Are you okay, dear?” The couple has exited the elevator and the man has a hand braced on the door, holding it open. The woman is staring at me, concern etched in the deep lines of her face. “Do you need help?”
“No. No, I’m fine.” I force a smile and step out of the elevator. “Just daydreaming.”
More like freaking the eff out, but she doesn’t need to know that.
I watch as they make their way down the hall, whispering quietly. Then I rally my courage and check the directory on the wall.
Room 335 is to the left. The opposite direction from the retreating couple.
I heave a sigh of relief and check my reflection in the mirror across from the elevator. It hangs above a table so I can only see the top half of my body, but it’s perfect for checking hair and lipstick.
Or, you know, stalling.
Put on your big girl pants and get moving.
