“Are you going out again?” The words are out of my mouth before I even realize I’m saying them. I’m doubly embarrassed because my tone is vaguely accusing.
“Yes.” He frowns, adjusting his watch. “Is that a problem?”
“No.” I laugh a little too loudly, praying he didn’t hear the possessiveness in my voice. “I was just asking.”
“Ooh, are you seeing Ben again tonight?” Kara asks, smiling slyly. “You’ve seen him almost every night this week.”
“I enjoy his company.” Jude grabs his jacket from the hook by the door.
“He’s super cute.” She’s practically buzzing. It’s no secret she’s thrilled Jude is dating someone. “You guys make a great couple.”
“Uh… thanks.” He zips his jacket. “You two have a good night.”
“You too,” I say, and my voice sounds normal. Mostly.
“Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” Kara calls out, smirking.
“Can’t make any promises.” He laughs gruffly and leaves the house.
I take a sip of wine, trying to control the jealousy eating at me. No, not jealousy. What am I thinking? It’s concern. I’m concerned for my friend, that’s all. I don’t think Ben is goodenough for Jude. Jude deserves to find a love as perfect as the one I have with Kara. I smile down at her and she snuggles closer.
“I’m so glad Jude finally has a life,” she says, walking her fingers up my jean clad thigh. “He was just always here. It was so annoying. I love that he’s got a boyfriend now.”
“They’re not a couple,” I say gruffly.
She laughs, looking at me like I’m clueless. “Babe, they’re basically inseparable at this point.”
“Jude’s lonely. He’s just getting to know Ben.” I avoid her gaze. “As far as I know, it’s nothing serious.”
“Well, I hope it is. Jude’s a nice guy.”
I can’t help laughing. “Since when are you a fan of Jude’s?”
She shrugs. “Just because I didn’t want him living with you forever doesn’t mean I don’t like him as a person. I simply wanted time alone with you. I have nothing against him personally. He’s kind of sweet.”
I have no response. She’s been a bitch to him almost the entire time he’s lived with me. But I don’t want to get into a huge argument with her about Jude. That’s the last thing I need.
“I’m going to check on the dinner.” I kiss her and get up off the couch, effectively ending the conversation about Jude.
After dinner, Kara and I sit on the couch, pretending to watch a movie. We make out a little but my heart isn’t in it. I feel too agitated for some reason. Around 11:50 p.m. headlights sweep across the living room wall. Kara is in the process of trying to unzip my jeans, and I gently push her hand away.
“Jude’s home,” I say in a rough voice.
She gives a frustrated groan and straightens her blouse. “This is why I hate you having a damn roommate.”
Jude enters the house quietly, but when he sees us on the couch he closes the door with less care. “You’re still up.”
“Yep. We’re watching a movie,” I lie. “Did you have fun?”
“I did.” He slips out of his jacket. “Ben has to work tomorrow, so I came home early.”
“It’s not exactly early.” I frown, noticing his shirt is now buttoned wrong. My wolf stirs irritably at what that might mean.
Jude laughs. “Did I miss my curfew, Dad?”
My face warms. “I only mean because we also have work tomorrow.”
Jude grunts as he heads for the stairs. “I’m going to bed. You kids enjoy the rest of your evening.” He takes the stairs two at a time.
