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I opened my mouth to respond, wondering how the hell he had worked out what was on Luke’s mind constantly.

“What? Why are you so crude? Can you please open a window, I don’t smoke. Gross.”

My heart hammered against my chest as I thought about my darkest fantasies.

God, Cal is such a smug bastard.

He dutifully opened a window, then slumped down until he was cross-legged against the door, leaving me on the bed.

“Okay, so talking therapy is when you speak to someone about any negative feelings... so we explore that...” I said, avoiding his intense gaze.

He inhaled, distracting me entirely. My words hitched in my throat as I tried to regain my composure.

“There are different therapies. My personal favourite is interpersonal therapy. What about you?”

He leaned forward somewhat; his voice low. “Do I look like I do therapy? Let’s do that personal one you like.”

I moved down to his level on the floor, crossing my legs as I stared at him with unease.

Deep breath, Gretchen.

“First, we get to know one another.”

Chapter Six

GRETCHEN

Cal shifted forward, his eyes on me.

"Me too. How are we going to do that? I like your hair down, by the way,” he said, motioning to my hair.

Just like that, I’m a mess.

My cheeks reddened, and I was glad his room was dim. The last thing I needed was him noticing the effect he had on me.

"Excellent to hear, Cal. So, tell me about your life?"

He laughed, his emerald eyes twinkling as he shook his head.

"What a shit question. Here’s an idea; I’ll ask you a question, be honest with me. Don’t forget this is confidential. Neither of us can tell anyone anything. Or do you want to go first?"

I looked down at my hands. He was right; itwasconfidential. I looked him in the eyes as I decided to ask what I really wanted to know.

"Why are you so rude to people?"

He shook his head as he stared at me in disbelief. "That’syour question? Why am I rude to people?"

I stared back at him. "It’s a simple question."

He whistled slowly before answering me. "Okay, precious. I have little tolerance for people. I don’t like anyone; it’s better that way.”

"But you like Krystal?" I shot back.

"No, Gretchen, you don’t get to ask two questions. It’s my turn," he reminded me as I folded my arms.

This was a bad idea.

"Fine, ask away,” I said as I lifted my chin defiantly.