“We’ve got a bus leaving soon.”
She pouts. “That’s a shame.” She thinks for a moment. “Want my number? That way we can hang out next time you’re in town.”
I look at her. She’s hot, for sure. She’s exactly the type of girl I would’ve slept with, way back when.Way back when—what?When I didn’t know Carrie?
“That’s sweet of you, but I’ve got a girlfriend, so…”
I hate to lie, but it’s insane how easily it slips out of me.
“That’s too bad.”
I watch her walk away, hips swaying from side to side. I’m surprised to note I don’t feel a thing.
Lewis and I head for the bus and get settled in for the six-hour drive back to SHU. I’m itching to call Carrie—just to rub the win in her face and hear her voice. I hit call and immediately hang up before it goes through. Then my phone pings, like she read my mind.
CARRIE:I’ve been thinking. I actually do want my bra back. I heard a guy say you crushed the game, so maybe you’re right—maybe it *is* lucky.
Plus, it’s the only one where I actually have the matching panties. I owe it to myself to get it back, you know?
DONOVAN:What?! Why didn’t I hear about these matching panties earlier? Imagine the score if I’d worn those babies, too!
CARRIE:I take it back…
DONOVAN:I need to complete the set.
CARRIE:Nope.
I shift in my seat.
DONOVAN:What are you doing?
CARRIE:I’m at home in Cincy.
DONOVAN:Again? You’re a mommy’s girl, huh? So cute!
It takes her longer than usual to reply.
CARRIE:Something like that.
I frown.What does that mean?It feels like there’s something I’m missing, somehow.
DONOVAN:You back tomorrow morning?
CARRIE:No classes tomorrow. I’m back Tuesday.
DONOVAN:I would’ve picked you up from the bus station, but I’ve got a management quiz.
CARRIE:“Bus station pickup”… Now there’s a book title!
DONOVAN:Nah. Where’s the romance in that?
CARRIE:Sometimes you scare me, Wolinski. Anyway, gotta go. I’m making dinner.
DONOVAN:Wait! If you’re gonna ditch me like this, at least give me some book recs? It’s a looong drive to campus.
CARRIE:Craving anything in particular?
Oh, honey… Something about a basketball player and a girl who plays hard to get?