“Ever think about joining?”
My chest tightens, something unfamiliar settling into place.
This doesn’t feel like school.
This doesn’t feel like failing.
“…Yeah,” I say.
And this time, I don’t hesitate.
“I think I would.”
A slow smirk pulls at his mouth.
“Then don’t screw it up.”
CHAPTER 1
Alexis
“Do you have everything you need?”
I rest my hand on my little brother’s shoulder, squeezing lightly, like I can hold him here just a second longer if I try hard enough.
He nods, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Lexy, I’ve been living on campus for almost six months now. Don’t worry.”
“Mason, please don’t drink too much, and stay away from drugs. You know how that messes you up and…”
“Lexy.”
He pulls me into a hug, my head barely reaching his chin, and for a moment I let myself stay there, letting the warmth of him settle into me, grounding me in something that still feels safe. When did he get so tall?
“You need to stop worrying about me,” he murmurs into my hair. “You worked your ass off so I could be here, in college, with a scholarship I could never get on my own. You gave me more than a big sister should ever have to give.”
He pulls back and studies my face too closely, like he’s trying to read through whatever I’m not saying.
“How’s the new apartment?”
I keep my expression steady, the lie sitting right where it always does. “Great. I love it.”
He doesn’t look convinced. Of course he doesn’t. He never misses anything.
“You sure it’s in a good neighborhood?”
I hug him again before he can dig any deeper. He’s too perceptive for his own good.
“I promise, Groot.”
He groans, dragging a hand through his blond hair. “Please don’t call me that. It’s bad for my image.”
I smirk despite the tightness in my chest. “You love it.”
“I loved it when I was twelve and you took care of me.”
“You’ll always be Groot.” I ruffle his hair, holding onto the moment longer than I should.
“All right,” I say, grabbing my keys. “I’ve got a two-hour drive back. I’ll miss you.”
