“Oh, yeah. I don’t have to wear them all the time. I just put them on when I’m studying or reading.”
I debate on telling her about my dyslexia. I’m not embarrassed by it or anything, but I’m just not sure I want to get into a whole conversation about it right now. Truth is, the glasses help to contrast the numbers and letters and also help with what my eye doctor calls visual stress.
“It’s funny that I’ve never seen you do either one with how often I’m over at your house.” She smiles.
I shrug. “It’s hard to focus in the house when people are coming and going, so I usually study in my room.”
“Makes sense.” She leans back in her seat, dropping her hands into her lap. “So, you ready for the game?”
“I’m always ready, Cupcake.” A smile spreads across my face. I like that she’s asking about the game.
“Good. I’m excited for y’all. I think you guys can win the whole damn thing.” She crosses her arms.
“Me too. We’ve got a strong team, and we’re really vibing this year. I love these guys.”
She nods and smiles. “Yeah, it seems that you all have really good chemistry on the field, but you actually like each other too.”
Then we just sit there, looking at each other, smiles on our faces. I have questions just dying to spill out, but I just said in the lockerroom that I would give her space. But, damn, the waiting is gonna be hard. I want to walk around the table, pick her up, and walk right out of here. Then take her to my bed and fuck her all night. I mean, can’t help it. She’s drop-dead gorgeous with her long brown hair, dark brown eyes, and pouty lips. And her body … it doesn’t quit. Curves for days, and I want to learn every. Single. One.
She pulls in a deep breath. “Well, I guess I should probably go.” She places her hands on the table in front of her and stands.
I stand with her. “I’ll walk you out. You heading to your dorm or our house?”
“I’m going to the dorm tonight. My dad will be here before lunch to get me. I was going to wait for Beck to get here and ride home with him, but my dad wants to do some last-minute Christmas shopping and needs my help. But we’ll be at the game.” She picks up her bag and slings it over her shoulder.
“Can I walk you to your dorm?” I slide my computer in my bag quickly and pull the straps over my shoulders.
“Uh, I’m not sure that’s a good idea.” She grimaces.
“Why not?” I walk over to her and nudge her arm with my elbow.
“Silas.” She looks at me incredulously.
“Is this about the dickhead?”
We start walking toward the exit of the library.
“Eli?” She rolls her eyes. “I mean, a little bit, yeah.”
“Okay, how about I walk you to Lindsey Street at least?” When we get to the door, I walk ahead and hold it open for her.
She looks up at me and smiles. “Fine, but you aren’t crossing with me.”
“All right, Cupcake.”
I hold out my arm for her to take, and she shoves it away.
“Don’t push it, Arbuckle,” she says, laughing.
I touch my chest with my hand. “I’m nothing but a gentleman.”
“Right.” She smirks.
“You’ll see.” I wink at her.
“Okay …” She adjusts the strap on her shoulder. “So, will your family come to the game, or will you get to see them at all over break?”
“My parents are supposed to come, but my siblings won’t come.”