Pen waves at me from behind Jack’s shoulder and I roll my eyes. “Excuse me a second, Jack. Yes, you’re free to leave, Pen. I’m a big girl.”
“Thank you. Have a good night, Jack.”
Jack spins to watch Penelope walk away, and when she’s gone, he turns back to face me, his expression wary. “She’s not subtle at all.”
“No, she’s not. And full transparency, you’re the fourth guy she’s introduced me to tonight.”
“Wow.” His lips remain in a surprised O.
“Yep.”
“How do I fare in relation to the others?” He adopts a superman-like pose, and I can’t help checking him out. If only he was wearing fitted spandex pants like a superhero. Then I could see what he’s packing.
“Please take your time.” His words cut into my ogling, and I bite back a smirk.
“I’m done. But I can’t answer yet. It depends.”
“On?”
“Your responses to a few well-crafted questions.”
“Hit me. I’m game.” He taps his chest and I almost reach out to do the same.
“Okay. One. Why are you here? In the US?”
“I’m on an athletic scholarship. My university back home offered an exchange program to improve our skills.”
“Nice. And what skills would that be?”
“I have many.” He bounces his eyebrows. “But the program is specifically for rugby.”
“Rugby?” My eyes widen. “But you're at a hockey house.”
“Good observation. My roommate is on the team.”
“Ahh, gotcha.”
“What’s my next question?”
“How many women have you slept with since arriving?”
“None.” He cringes and my face crinkles involuntarily. “I’m sensing that’s not the answer you wanted, but it’s an unfair question. I’ve only been here for a month.”
“A month is a long time to go without sex.” His face contorts, much like mine did, so I quickly add, “for some,” and wink as though I’m joking. “Next question,” I squeak out. “Do you know Penelope’s cousin, Brant?”
“Ah, no. Should I?”
“Nope. That’s a good answer. Last one. Have you heard any rumors about me?”
Jack frowns but he's quick to answer. “I didn’t know who you were until about five seconds before Penelope shoved me your way.”
“So…that’s a no?”
“It is. Though now I’m curious.” He quirks an eyebrow in question.
“No need to be.” I smile innocently. “You passed the test.”
“Great. What do I win?”
