Smiling.
It’s not easy being married when secrets keep tearing us apart.
Our relationship isn’t built on trust.
Ashton wouldn’t know what that’s like, how easy he has it right now.
I don’t want to feel this way, the burn in my stomach, the ache in my heart, the rage building inside of me with each glance and smile they share.
Their friendship isn’t built on lies.
How can I not feel jealous?
Liam stretches his arms on the sofa and smirks. “I could play a game. Not really into the dare part of Truth or Dare. How about we just have to answer whatever’s asked of us.”
Nova’s eyes flicker to Liam. “Chicken.” She emits a heavy sigh. “But fine, I could do a game of just truths.” It’s like they’re sharing a secret.
For fuck’s sake.
Is everyone keeping secrets from me, or am I just growing more paranoid like my father?
Spending time with him is rubbing off on me.
Grumbling, I’m not keen on this little game, but I tolerate it. Spending time, all of us together, is rare these days.
I exhale through my nose, grab a beer from the fridge, and grab a seat on the floor. “Yeah, sure. Hit me with your best shot.” I offer to go first, at least just to rip it off like a Band-Aid. The longer they have to think up questions, the tougher it will become.
Ashton smirks. “I’ll start. How long are you going to stay angry with me for studying with Harper?”
Maybe I should be reconsidering and opt for a quiet night in my room, in bed.
I roll my eyes and take a swig of my beer. “This would be better as a drinking game,” I mutter.
“I’m game!” Nova jumps up from her position on the floor, and I scowl at her.
“There’s beer in the fridge. That’s all that’s in this house,” I say.
Liam and Ashton both glare at me. I swear it’s the look of we know you’re lying but neither call me out, either.
It’s nice that they’re both my teammates and have my back.
“Whatever.” Nova rolls her eyes and plops back down.
“My turn,” I say and smirk.
Ashton laughs. “The fuck it is. You didn’t answer the question.”
I sip my beer, pretending I didn’t notice. “Oh. Didn’t I? Well, as long as you’re not hitting on Harper and keeping your grimy paws off her, I think we’ll be okay.”
Ashton runs a hand through his hair. Frustration marks his forehead, with his vein protruding slightly. “You both realize my intention was just studying?” Ashton glances from Harper to me.
“Of course, it was!” Harper’s eyes widen, and I’m surprised she’s not screaming in my face. “We’re married. Maybe that doesn’t mean anything to you, Luca, but it means something to me. I’d never cheat on you! Are you always going to be such a caveman? Or is there any chance of you evolving?”
She has a way of trying to get under my skin, but I refuse to let her succeed. “It’s not your question, Harper.” I shoot a look at her, indicating that I have no plan of answering her.
“Don’t worry. It was rhetorical.”
My eyebrows narrow as I turn my focus to Ashton. “Why are you suddenly not bringing countless girls to your bedroom?”
