Hayley
“Was that Corbin that I just passed on the street?”
I make a noncommittal sound as I continue flicking stations on the TV. I hope by showing no reaction that he quickly loses interest in the subject. After all, how am I supposed to know who he’s seen on his drive home?
“Should I be worried about leaving you alone?”
“No.” I cut Oliver a hard look. Out of all my brothers, he’s always been the easy-going one. I’d hate to begin thinking otherwise.
He must read me well because he nods and changes direction.
“Does Kyle know?”
I pause, flicking my eyes back to the telly as I think about my other brother. Of course, Kyle doesn’t know, it’s the reason we’re still fooling around. If Kyle were to find out, both Corbin and I know that it would be the end of things.
I look back to Oliver. He’s resting against the kitchen benchtop with a fresh bottle of water. I consider telling him the truth, I wonder if he’s trustworthy enough to confide in.
My gut tells me, yes, but my brain says that the bond between brothers is stronger than between a brother and a sister.
“Does Kyle know what?”
Oliver sighs, and chooses his next words carefully, “Just, be careful. I’d hate to see you hurt.”
“If I get hurt, it won’t be by Corbin.”
There’s a silent understanding that flows between us. We both know that Corbin isn’t the threat here, it’s Kyle. Unfortunately, as close as I am with him, I know he’s got a temper and I’m not fooled into thinking just because I’m his sister, I’ll be shielded from it.
Everyone thinks I’m this super genius, but if I were really that smart, I’d stop fooling around with Corbin behind my brother’s back. It won’t be long before it all blows up in my face, but I can’t find a damn to give.
I can’t seem to say no to Corbin, not for long anyway. His crystal blue eyes and his wicked smirk are more powerful than he’ll ever know.
* * *
I only droppedin to the frat house because one of my brother’s roommates, Noah, needed my notes. I wasn’t planning on staying. I was hoping to pass over the notes and dash. I didn’t want to see either Kyle or Corbin.
When Tillie popped her head around the corner and insisted I come in, I couldn’t exactly resist. So now I was stuck studying with her, sitting at the dining table as some of the guys play video games on the flat screen. There are others milling about the rest of the house.
It may be the weekend but in early February, it’s still chilly out. A lot of us choose to hibernate through the winter until the summer sun makes its return.
Kyle shouts, making me jump and turn towards them. Announcing his death, I stand to take his place. Finally, my turn.
I push Kyle out of the way and steal his chair. I don’t love video games; I mostly think they’re a waste of time. But that doesn’t mean I suck. Growing up in a house with three brothers, you pick up some tricks.
My breath catches in my throat when I see that I’m playing against Lucas, Zane, and Corbin. And Corbin’s sitting right next to me, as close as can be while still being discreet.
“Have you seen Wonder Woman yet?”
When no one replies, I glance over to Tillie and find her looking right at me.
Oh. “Not yet, I’m going this weekend though.”
“Who with?”
“Just by myself…” Oh god. Is that weird?
“Really?”
“Aww, that’s so sweet. How about we come with you?”
