“You’re such a fucking child.”
“Their relationship is strictly professional,” I explained, trying to convince myself of it as well.
“Yeah, sure—they fuck talking about paintings. Great work, huh.”
“Cut it out!”
I felt my cheeks flush.
“You’re so funny.” James pushed a finger on my cheek so hard that it stung. “You’re turning red. You never turn red.”
“You’re talking about my mom!”
“Are you embarrassed by sex, White? What, are you twelve?”
I punched his stomach, but that had no effect on him. He dodged the second one, pushing himself against me.
“You don’t have to use the excuse that you want to fight me just to touch me, Snow White.”
“You wish. You don’t scare me, Hunter. I’ll tell you that until I’m blue in the face.”
“Oh no? You shake every time I’m near you.” I felt out of breath again. “Did you think I didn’t notice?”
“I can’t wait to tell Will what a dick you’re being to me.”
“Try to tell him anything, and I’ll tell him how you liked rubbing up against that asshole Hood.”
My ears rang with embarrassment. “Try to do better than that, Hunter. If you think that’ll separate us, you’re wrong.”
“Is it because he invited you to meet his parents? Are you really that sure about it?”
Doubt wormed its way into my head. “Why shouldn’t I be?”
James burst out laughing, walking away. “Congratulations. Have fun, White.”
“Where are you going? The vice principal’s office is that way,” I hollered as he walked away.
“Pass along a message to the vice principal from me.”
“What kind?”
“Tell him.” He lifted his middle finger like a moron. He was a lost cause. Why was I wasting my time with someone like him?
I grabbed my phone out of my locker and texted William.
June:Are you coming to Tropical tonight?
William:Only if you’re there
37
June
Poppy, Amelia, and I had been sitting on the café love seats at Tropical for around ten minutes. Amelia ordered Coke Zero for everyone, even though I preferred regular Coke.
“Will’s here!” Poppy exclaimed, yanking my jacket sleeve.
“June, where are you going?” Amelia’s question was veiled with a reprimand when she saw me stand up.
