“Who’s him?” I whisper.
Our conversation halts as a tall figure emerges from the garden, walking with an air of confidence. And possibly… satisfaction? His dark brown hair is tousled across his head in an artfully mussed style. Or someone ran their fingers through his hair a lot.
His eyes glint with a smirk playing about his generous mouth. In contrast to his light-colored eyes, his clothing is completely black. A fitted t-shirt that accentuates the muscles of his biceps and torso, as well as the expanse of his back. His forearms are covered in dark ink, matching the rest of his attire. The cargo pants are tucked into boots that make no sound as he walks on the grass. He wears a watch that looks expensive even at a distance, and a single gold ring.
From this far, I can’t tell if it’s similar to Ben’s. Given the fact that we’re at a university, there’s a high probability he’s also part of the same fraternity.
June gasps, turning to me. “You don’t know who Xavier Donovan is? He’s only the most intriguing guy you’ll ever meet. Mysterious, brooding, and a bit of a legend around here.”
“Now who sounds like they read bodice rippers?” Raven says, jamming her elbow into June’s side.
The blonde lets out a feminine grunt. “Fine. He’s rich, hot as fuck, and supposedly has a gargantuan dick. Happy now?”
Raven looks over at Xavier and nods. “Actually, yeah.”
“Everyone calls him ‘X,’” June says. “I’ve heard it’s because he’s like the drug ecstasy. Once you’ve been with him, he makes you feel so good that you’ll get addicted after one hit.”
My mouth falls open. “Wow.”
She nods with a dreamy sigh. “Yup. He’s the one equation I can’t solve.”
“Don’t be such a whore.” Raven groans. “Yes, X is a challenge and everything, but like drugs, he’s bad for your health. Get over him, June.”
“I make no promises.”
Our conversation halts for the second time when a young woman with long chestnut curls emerges from the garden entrance, discreetly adjusting her clothes. She calls out to Xavier. He stops and turns to look at her over his shoulder before walking away, leaving her to chase after him.
“Pathetic,” Raven says. “I bet she’d be on her knees again if he asked, even though he just used her.”
June purses her lips. “I don’t know… There’s a reason why girls want him, even though he’s obviously a dick. Rumor has it that he’s not selfish in bed. That he gets off on you getting off. Probably some male ego thing, but it works for me.”
Raven nudges me and then June to start walking. “I have no doubt he’s hard to get over, but I think it’s better not to get involved in the first place. That man cares more about conquest than actually connecting.”
“You’re such a poet,” I say.
“Thank you.” She gives me a smile. “Now, let’s continue the tour on our way to orientation. I know it won’t get you laid, June, but Delilah wants to go so I’m going to support her.”
The blonde shrugs. “I’ll go. It’s not like I have anything better to do right now.”
I push all thoughts of Xavier out of my mind. Although I can’t deny his raw sexuality paired with his confidence sparks something in me, I’m not interested in having my life fall apart. It was broken for years, and I have no desire to return to that dysfunction.
Still… an image of his ring won’t leave my brain.
Chapter 12
XAVIER
Afew moments earlier…
The tranquilityof the garden is a front. The secrets that people have whispered here cling to the leaves of the oaks and willows, and the wind has snatched the grunts and moans of people engaging in sexual gratification. This secluded area is nothing more than a place to hook up between classes.
I lean against the trunk of a nearby tree and cross my arms with impatience. Whatever logic led me to meeting Brenda clearly wasn’t sound. However, the urgency in her voice, along with her past relationship with Eric Gage, was enough to convince me.
Just as I’m about to leave, she steps out from the shadows, the library shielding her from the sun. Brenda’s dark hair is loose, framing her face and resting on her shoulders. As always, she’s dressed well, embodying sophistication and elegance despite her humble background. I assume she’s here on a scholarship. Not that I care enough to confirm.
“X,” she says in greeting. Her eyes glint with something carnal when she runs her gaze over me. “Thank you for meeting me.”
“What do you want?”
