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Drew’s eyes narrow. “Fuck them. They don’t know shit.”

I shrug. “Maybe they’re right. Maybe I’m not?—”

“Stop right there,” Drew interrupts, holding up a hand. “Don’t even finish that sentence, Elliot. You are more than good enough for Gerard. In fact,he’slucky to haveyou.”

The intensity in his voice catches me off guard. I’ve never seen Drew so forceful. “You think so?”

“Iknowso. He lights up whenever you’re around. It’s disgusting, really. But it’s also proof that you make him happy. And that’s all that matters. Or, at least, it should. Now, how about we get you that coffee you’re clearly dying for?”

I hesitate, glancing at the crowded interior of The Brew. “I don’t know…”

“Tell you what. You wait out here, and I’ll grab your usual. My treat.”

Before I can protest, he strides toward the entrance and pushes open the door with a confident swagger that only Drew Larney can possess. Through the glass window, I watch him approach the counter and flash a charming smile that makes the barista giggle and flutter her lashes.

Within minutes, he’s back outside with a small, steaming cup of coffee in his large hand. “Here you go, kitten.”

I take it gladly but scowl at his term of endearment. “I’m not a kitten.”

“You totally are.” He throws an arm around my shoulders and walks back to the Hockey House with me.

I take a sip of the coffee, and it’s exactly how I take it. I have no idea how Drew knows my usual order, but I’m grateful for his unexpected show of support.

“Think about it,” Drew continues. “You’re small, cute, and enjoy curling up with a good book. Total kitten behavior.”

I shoot him a sidelong glance. “I am not small or cute. And lots of people enjoy reading.”

“True, but not everyone gets that adorable little crinkle between their eyebrows when they’re concentrating really hard on a page.” Drew grins and pokes my forehead. “See? You’re doing it right now.”

I swat at his hand, much like a kitten would, and fight back a smile. “Shut up. I donothave a crinkle.”

“You do. I consider it your signature move. That, and the grumpy pout.”

“I don’t pout.”

Drew laughs heartily at my pout. “You’re kinda proving my point here, kitten. Embrace it. Own your inner feline.”

“Fine, if I’m a kitten, then what are you? A hyperactive golden retriever?”

“Please,” Drew scoffs. “I’m clearly a peacock. Majestic, confident, and impossibleto ignore.”

I snort into my coffee. “Try cocky, loud, and always trying to get laid.”

“Exactly!” Drew grins, showing no shame. “See, you get me. But seriously, don’t let those assholes get to you. Elliot. They’re just jealous that Gerard snagged the cutest kitten on campus.”

I elbow him lightly in the ribs. “Enough with the kitten thing.”

“Never.” Drew smirks. “For real, though, you’re awesome. Don’t let anyone make you doubt that.”

“Thanks, Drew. I appreciate you saying that.”

“I only speak the truth, my friend. Unless I’m trying to get into your pants, then I’lltotallyembellish.”

I’m sprawledout on Gerard’s bed, my head propped up on my hand as I watch him move around the room. I should be focusing on this short story for my creative writing class, but I find myself easily distracted.

Gerard’s been tidying up all day, picking up stray articles of clothing and humming a catchy pop song under his breath. I think it’s “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift, but his unique rendition makes it hard to be sure.

What I am sure of, though, is that Gerard is completely, gloriously naked. And I can’t take my eyes off him.