Page 91 of Breakaway Hearts

“I was on my way out, but my roommate is at her boyfriend’s tonight. I can finally show you those yoga positions,” she says seductively, and it takes me a minute to remember that she whispered dirty yoga terms in my ear last time, after I asked who named it downward dog.

“I can’t,” I apologize. “Early morning practice.” I shrug like it can’t be helped, ignoring the look Dave gives me, like he’s minding his own business, but nine isn’t what any of us would call early.

“Or we can go out back for a preview of what’s to come,” she tries again, poking her tongue into her cheek so I know exactly what she’s offering.

I suck in a breath. “Another time.”

I say it like it pains me to turn her down, but the truth is I’m not even tempted. I have no interest in her. Or anyone else for that matter. Not for the foreseeable future. I’d rather sit across from Mads in the fucking library, watching her study and tear me apart, than go home with Nicole, or let her blow me in the back room.

“Have you met Holden?” I ask instead. It’s a douche move, but I don’t want to lie to her.

“I’m not a fucking bunny, you dick.”

I watch her debate throwing her drink in my face before she chooses to down it.

“How about I get you another?” Dave offers, entirely for my benefit.

“That went well,” Mike points out once they’re gone.

“Fuck you.”

“Her idea or yours?”

I look at him blankly.

“The exclusivity clause. Keeping it on the down low is on her, but…” He nods to Nicole, knowing very well I was into her last year. When I found out she wasn’t single, I distinctly remember telling her to come find me if that changes.

“Mine.”

I might have lied if it was anyone else.

“Because you don’t share and it’s only fair, or because you don’t want anyone else?”

“You’re not this wise and mature,” I warn.

“Far from it,” he agrees. “But I know you.”

“And?”

“You’re designed to be a boyfriend. Committed relationships are your jam. You’ve avoided anything resembling them here because you’ll get sucked in and fall too hard, and you don’t want a repeat of Cami. What’s different?”

“It’s just sex,” I lie, but neither of us believes it.

“Exclusive sex that has you worried about texting etiquette?” He looks at me like he knows that was her idea, not mine. Or that I’m lying to myself.

“We have an agreement.”

“But what do you want?”

Maddie. I sigh. Everything she isn’t willing to give. And I don’t want to pressure her into something she doesn’t want…only I think she does.

I just need to convince her she can have it. That we’re worth it.

“For you to mind your own fucking business,” I tell him.

“Aye, aye, Captain.”

Chapter Thirty-Seven