Sleep eluded me.
My bed was usually my favorite thing about coming back from a trip, but this time it felt cold, empty, and uninviting.
Because Monte’s not here.
That truth hit me hard. I’d gotten used to him snuggling me at night. He made me feel warm and safe. And maybe I’d become a little addicted to that—to him.
I was already in my pajamas, but it was dark outside. Maybe I could make it over to Monte’s window and sneak inside. I was pretty certain he wouldn’t mind one bit. So why was I so nervous just thinking about it?
Deciding to be brave and throw caution to the wind, I grabbed my phone and headed back out, PJs and all.
“Zoey, is that you?” Chloe asked.
“Yeah, I’m back.”
She hugged me. “How was your trip?”
“Um, good. Got tied up longer than I expected. Paparazzi found me.”
“Oh. I assumed it was because of Monte.”
“Monte?” I gulped.
“The allusive doghouse brother. You know the one. The two of you are the talk of campus.”
I groaned. “Everyone saw that teaser?”
“Oh yeah. It was hot with a capital H.”
“It was just a teaser. He’s an instructor at the lodge I was at.”
She gave me a knowing look. “Babe, that was a genuine smile you were flashing at him. I’ve only seen it a few times and I’m your favorite sister.”
“Favorite might be an exaggeration.”
She nudged me and grinned. “He’s cute.”
“I may have noticed.”
“He’s been missing too, and his brothers haven’t heard a peep from him.”
I groaned again. “He’s back, too.”
“I figured. So again, how was your trip, really?”
“Wipe that smile off your face. It’s not what you’re thinking. Nothing happened.”
That wasn’t entirely true, but not a lie based on her standards either. Physically, aside from kissing, nothing had happened. Yet, I craved his physical touch right now.
“Where is everyone?”
“The doghouse. They’re throwing a big party tonight. It’s the place to be, as always.”
“So why aren’t you there?”
She shrugged. “I was. I know this is going to sound insane, but I’m kind of tired of all the parties. A quiet night in just hanging out with you and catching up sounds perfect.”
I cringed, and I knew the second she saw it.
