Page 39 of Damaged Boys Don't Fall For Bubbly Girls

As we eat, I feel eyes on me. Glancing up, I spot Lexi watching me. But when our eyes meet, she quickly looks away,her cheeks red. Finn says something to her, but I don’t think she’s paying much attention to him.

Maybe those two really are just friends.

But what does it matter? Why do I care if Lexi likes Finn? She and I have to rebuild our friendship.Ineed to make up for all the pain I caused her. I can’t even think about the possibility of being more…

After we finish the amazing pizza, we gather back in Lexi’s room to watchSea Nightmare. I’m on the floor now, while Lexi and Finn are together on the bed. But Cooper and Nate are between them.

Lexi is behind me, her legs knocking into my back every so often as we watch. She bends close, “Sorry for kicking you. I can’t sit still. The movie is so intense and a little scary.”

Reaching back, I take her hand in mine. It’s not a comfortable angle, but hopefully she won’t be scared anymore. She gives my hand a squeeze, letting me know she appreciates my being here for her.

Chapter Fourteen

Lexi

There are two weird things about the situation I currently find myself in. First of all, I don’t normally get scared during horror movies. And second, the movie the guys and I are watching isn’t even a horror. So why am I clutching Brock’s hand like I’m scared the monsters will launch out of the TV and eat me alive?

His hand is so warm. So comforting. It makes me feel very protected.

I sense he’s giving me a promise—that despite the past and all we’ve been through, Brock Hastings is here for me. He will always be here for me. As long as I’m willing to allow him into my heart.

Rubbing my fingers across his knuckles, I give him my own promise. That I’m here for him, too, and I will always be here for him.

“This is sick.” Cooper’s eyes are so wide as he stares at the screen, I bet I can fit Brock’s globe inside. “From now on, Brock chooses the movies.”

Gael motions for him to keep quiet. “You’re ruining this suspenseful scene.”

A hush falls over us as we stay focused on the TV, our heads moving a little closer as the scene continues to build up. Then a sea creature shoots out of the water, causing us all to yelp. Nate actually topples off the bed with a loud thud.

“You okay, Nate?” Brock scrambles off the floor and helps him up.

Rubbing the side of his head, Nate chuckles. “I’m good, thanks. Dudes, that was insane.”

“I know, right? Epic sea monster,” Gael says.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Brock asks Nate. “Did you bump your head? You know, head injuries can be very dangerous. You might not see the signs right away, and then it might be too late.”

Nate slaps his back with a grin. “I’m good, man.” He hops onto the bed. “We need to rewind and see that part again.”

Everyone gets comfortable in their spot, but Brock remains standing near my bed. He’s staring at Nate with a worried expression.

“Brock?” I ask.

He blinks and glances at me. “What? Oh, um. Yeah, I’m coming.”

After he’s sitting on the floor at the foot of my bed, I rewind the movie so we can see that epic sea monster. This time, no one cries out or tumbles off my bed. We marvel and cheer at the special effects because that is one kickbutt monster.

And then, just when the sea creature is about to devour the hero and heroine, the credits roll down the screen.

“What the heck?” Cooper yells.

Brock raises his shoulders. “The sequel should be out next year.”

“Nextyear?” Theo shoots himself in the head and collapses on my bed.

“Awesome movie choice, man.” Dean fist bumps Brock. “Movie nights are now ten times better than they were before because you’re back with us.”

“Thanks. It’s great to watch movies with all of you again.” Brock pushes some bangs out of his eyes. “I didn’t realize how much I missed it.”