Page 10 of Palm South University: Season 2

“Must be your infectious attitude,” I tease. Adam smiles, but it fades after a moment and he just stares at me. I feel naked with his eyes on me that way.

“Why didn’t you return my calls over the holiday?”

I drop my eyes to my hands, picking at the nail polish on the fingers gripping my cup. “I just needed a break from everyone.”

“Even me?”

“Especially you,” I murmur, my chest tightening.

“What?”

I sigh, lifting my eyes to his again, somewhat thankful he didn’t hear me. “It’s nothing personal. I was just homesick, so I tried to focus on my family while I had them close.”

Adam’s brows are still furrowed, but he relaxes a bit. “Understandable.” For a moment he just watches me, and I really wish he’d stop. “I was just kind of worried about you, you know… after the way the semester ended.” I really,reallywish he’d stop looking at me the way he is. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.” It’s not a lie, not completely, anyway. I was far from fine over break, especially after Clay took my virginity and then embarrassed me in front of the entire school. But being home with my family really did help, and now that I’m swearing off boys, I know I’ll be okay.

“You know I’m always here for you.” His hand touches my arm just slightly with his words and I shudder.

“There you are!” Skyler bounds out the sliding glass door and throws her arms around Adam’s neck. His eyes are still on me, but his hands wrap around her small waist. “Come dance with me.”

Finally tearing his eyes from mine, he smiles down his nose at her, nodding. “Whatever you want, Poker Star.”

Skyler’s blue eyes dazzle in the low light of the night as she turns to me. “Coming, Little?”

“Yeah. Just give me a second.”

Skyler drags Adam inside and I lean on the railing again, focusing on my breaths. My skin still feels hot, despite the water and the fresh air. Once I feel I have myself together, I pull out my phone to check the time.

And I have two missed texts.

Both from a number I don’t have saved in my phone.

– Okay, so I waited a few days so I wouldn’t seem so desperate, but I’m tired of playing the “I’m not interested” game. Can I take you out this week? –

– … Please say yes. –

I smile, biting my lower lip as I type out a response.

– Friday. Seven o’clock. Ralph’s. –

If Grayson wants me to break my no boys, no drama rule, he’s going to have to work for it.

First test — saving me from the creeps at the auction.