Page 145 of Fragments

Something burns in my gut, spreading up to my chest. It feels like my stomach and heart are having a race to see which one can climb up my throat first.

Is this love? Am I in love with Warren Xavier?

The feelings I get when I’m with him, even when I’m sitting alone in my cell thinking about him, are similar to how I felt for Leah, only much more intense. The same affection, but turned up a hundred degrees. It’s friendship boiling over.

I might love him… Would that be bad?

It’s scary, that’s for sure. I have so many insecurities when it comes to Ren. He might be okay giving up other dicks for now, but how long will it last? We’re in hereforever. Forever is a long fucking time.

God, what have I gotten myself into?? I’m such an idiot.

You can’t fall in love in prison. Death row is no place for a relationship.

A few hours later, Joy and Velle scoop us all up for dinner. I’m uneasy, lurking off to the side like a wallflower as Ren and Parker traipse out into the hall, chatting and laughing. The loser feels are coming on strong until Ren scoots in next to me and grabs my hand.

“Fancy meeting you here.” He grins at me, leaning in to kiss my neck as he whispers, “You must be exhausted…”

My brow furrows as I slope my face in his direction.

“’Cause you’ve been running through my mindall day,” he hums, shooting me a sly wink.

A chuckle rumbles out of me, and I bite my lip to tame the smile trying to hijack my lips like a Somali pirate.

“Dumbass,” I grunt, while he laughs at my forced scowl.

All of my doubts have vanished in seconds. It’s truly fascinating. I squeeze his hand tighter, downplaying the obvious flush in my cheeks.

Maybe he loves me too…

In the cafeteria, we all sit down for a dinner of stale chicken nuggets and fruit punch. Parker is telling us about this book he’s been reading, and Ren’s hand is dancing up my inner thigh, distracting the crap out of me.

“Oh! I almost forgot,” Ren chimes suddenly, reaching into his pocket. “I brought you a gift.”

He smiles excitedly at me while holding out his closed fist.

“What is it?” I ask, and his head cocks.

“What are the magic words?”

I roll my eyes and sigh. “Ren has the best dick on earth…”

“You’re so good at that.” He beams.

I laugh as he opens his hand, revealing a ketchup packet. My eyes widen, mouth falling agape.

“For me?!” I gasp, snatching it up quick, wiggling around in pure zeal.

“Formyman,” he croons, decorating my neck with kisses. “Who also has the best dick on earth.”

“Thank you, sweet flame.” I give him a look of adoration. “I feel bad, though. I can’t be the only one with ketchup.” My eyes fling to Parker. “You want some?”

“No, no. Please, use it.” Parker grins. “These meds make it so I can’t taste shit, anyway.”

“I hope you can’t tasteshit,” Ren jeers. “It probably tastes pretty bad.”

I snort while Parker shakes his head. “Luthor, your boyfriend is annoying.”

“He’s not my boyfriend,” I murmur, tearing open my packet and squeezing out a dot of ketchup onto each nugget while Ren chuckles.