We talk about random things happening at school and around town. Ryan slips his hand into mine under the table and gives it a squeeze. I squeeze back.
Wow, having a boyfriend is so much fun. No wonder Jenna and Jason can’t keep away from one another.
Ryan stabs his food, his mind seeming to travel somewhere. His eyes are a bit hollow, and I’m wondering if he’s thinking about whatever happened over a month ago.
I poke his hand with my finger. “You okay?”
Both Jenna and Jason stop talking and turn to him. He sinks a bit in his chair like he wants to disappear.
“I’m fine.”
Jenna smiles brightly. “So how did this happen, anyway?”
Ryan and I glance at one another. “I don’t know,” I tell her. “It just did.” I look at my brother. “Don’t be like Dad and treat my boyfriend like a criminal.”
Jason holds up his hands. “Nope. Ryan’s a good dude. And speaking of Dad, are you going to tell him about…?” He nods to Ryan.
I groan. “Ugh, I’ll have to. I mean, it’s not like I can hide anything from him. But I’m not thinking about that now.”
Jenna’s eyes sweep the area. “Everyone’s staring at our table.”
I follow her gaze. She’s right. Everyoneisstaring at us, specifically Ryan. I shrug. “Let them stare, I don’t care. And if word gets out that we’re together, then whatever.”
Ryan gives my hand another squeeze. Is that his equivalent of a smile?
Someone is shooting flaming arrows at me from the right corner of the cafeteria, and when I turn my head, I find none other than Brianne Crawford glaring at me. Ugh, again? Seriously? That girl needs to obsess over something else.
I turn away from her, not giving her another second of my time.
***
Ryan and I spent a few hours after school at the bookstore, where I picked out all my favorites for him to read. He told me he’ll read as much as he can tonight. Wow, he’s being very dedicated. It’s so…cute. I like it. I think my feelings for him grow with each passing day. I bet it won’t be long before I…
Love him?
Oh my gosh.
There’s a soft tap on my door before Jason steps inside and drops down on my bed. “Hey.”
I give him a curious look. “What’s up?”
He shakes his head. “I’m just happy for you. About Ryan and everything. I know you’ve liked him for a while.”
I squint at hm. “You’re being weird.”
He holds up his hands. “He’s a good guy.”
“Uh huh.”
“What? I’m just telling you he’ll be a good boyfriend.”
“Okay? I mean, I know that. That’s why I’m with him…?”
He nods slowly. “But if he ever hurts you, tell me and I’ll kill him.”
I roll my eyes.
“Just promise me.”
