Page 33 of After Hours Lectures

12

HAYDEN

This was a bad idea.

Was I seriously considering taking a trip up to the mountains where Tyler was skiing so we could have a secret rendezvous? Fuck, I was. I just needed to get my game covered and then I could drive up for the night. If I went, I wouldn’t stay at the same hotel as him and his frat guys because I didn’t want to risk having a run-in with anyone who might recognize me. Even staying somewhere else was a huge risk, but I was dying to see Tyler.

It had been four days since he’d come to my office after class, and due to his school work and my schedule, we hadn’t been able to meet up during the week. The more I thought about going up to where he was, the more I realized I wanted to.

While searching for a place to stay, my phone dinged with a text. I’d recently changed Tyler’s name from Bracelet Guy to TS since he was more to me than just a bracelet guy now, but I still needed to keep his identity private.

TS: Just got back from the slopes. Jumping in the shower and then we’re grabbing a bite. Hope you have a good night

The thought of him in the shower was enough to make up my mind.

Me: I’ll pick you up after dinner

TS: Wait. What? You’re here?

Me: I will be by the time you’re done with dinner

TS: Are you staying at the hotel?

Me: No

I had no idea where I was staying, but the website I was looking at showed there were vacation houses available to rent the same day. I sent another text.

I’ll book something and pick you up. Cool?

TS: Hell yeah. Text me when to come down and I’ll slip away

I hesitated to ask the question I had, but I needed to know what his plans were.

Me: Are you staying the night with me?

It took a moment for him to text back:

Yeah, but I have to be back here by noon to get a ride home unless you want to drive me to the frat house?

Both scenarios were a risk because no matter what, there was a chance someone would see us, but dropping him off at a hotel that wasn’t anywhere near campus was the better option.

Me: I’ll drive you back to the hotel after breakfast

TS: Okay. I’ll tell Fallon and have him cover for me until I get back

I sucked in a breath.

Me: Tell Fallon what?

TS: Don’t worry. I won’t tell him who I’m with

I relaxed and replied:

Okay. Let me know when you’re back from dinner. I’m leaving as soon as I pack a bag

TS: Can’t wait

Me: Me too ??