It’s probably crazy that I feel this way. She’s not even my real girlfriend.
But even as I say that to myself, it feels wrong. Because even if our relationship is fake, my feelings for Poppy are the most real thing I’ve ever felt.
I care about her so much. I’m insanely attracted to her. I love spending time with her. When she’s happy, I’m happy. I’d do anything to make her laugh, to keep her safe…
Emotion surges through my chest. For a second, I feel unsteady, but in a good way.
That’s when I know—I’ve caught major real feelings for my fake girlfriend.
Chapter 25
Nick
“Hey, man. You good?”
Travis’s question pulls me back to the present moment. Poppy would probably freak out if she knew just how much I like her.
I clear my throat. “Yeah. I just fucking hate that guy.”
“Hey, you!”
I turn around and see Poppy smiling at me, her cheeks bright red.
I grin at the sight of her. All the tension and anger melt away. “Hey, wild girl.”
She hiccups and wobbles on her feet. She makes a come-hither motion with her finger. I lean down to her.
“Anna gave me some tequila in the bathroom,” she whispers loudly.
I sigh and act like I’m disappointed even though seeing Poppy drunk is cute as hell.
“How much tequila?” I ask.
“Just, like, two mini bottles.” She hiccups again. “Okay, maybe three. I can’t remember.”
She giggles.
I wrap my arm around her and pull her to my side. “It’s okay. I’ll take care of you.” I turn to Travis. “I’m gonna take Poppy home. Will you let the guys know we’re leaving?”
“Yeah, sure thing.”
I walk Poppy out of the ballroom. She gazes up at me with sleepy-drunk eyes. “You’re so sexy,” she slurs.
“Why, thank you. So are you.”
I kiss her forehead and walk her out of the Student Union. A few people whistle at us. Someone yells, “Hell yeah, homecoming king and queen!”
I flash a thumbs-up as we walk in the direction of her apartment.
“Hey. You know what we should do when we get to my place, sexy man?”
“What’s that?”
“Make out.”
I chuckle. “No way. You’re too drunk.”
She sticks her bottom lip out and pouts. I almost go “aww,” it’s so damn adorable.
