Page 142 of Pretty Mess

“Yes, he feels very strongly about my arsehole.”

“Well, it’s not your scintillating wit, that’s for sure.” I snort, and he taps his finger on the counter, his eyes intent. “The fact that he’s done all this for your brother speaks volumes. He’s not the type of man to do that.”

“How do we know that, though? We were wrong about him never having an arrangement like he had with me. The reality is that he was an old hand at that.”

“I actually think the fact Mac had a prior arrangement with Brandon bugs you more than being beaten up under his watch.”

“The assault wasn’t his fault at all,” I say crossly.

“Doesheknow that?”

“What do you mean? Of course, he does.”

“I’d be very sure about that if I were you. It’s not good to try and read someone’s mind. Put it this way, I’d rather read Jeffery Dahmer’s mind than yours.”

“I do believe he cares for me.” I pause. “Mac. Not Jeffery Dahmer.”

“Thank you so much for clarifying that.”

“But it isn’t enough for me. I’m greedy.”

“You’re not. You deserve the best.”

“That’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me.”

He sighs. “Maybe make a note of it then because I’m not repeating it.” He looks at me sternly. “Whatever I say, you’re still going to meet him.”

“If you could, would you stop me?” I ask curiously.

He considers that and then shakes his head. “No, I think you should let this play out.”

“That’s it?” I say as he goes back to his laptop.

He smiles. “What more do you need?”

“Nothing. Of course, I need to talk with him. I can’t believe he did this. He had no right to interfere in my life. I’m not his pet charity project.”

“Ah, we’re back to that, and the world has completed yet another turn. What joy!” I stand up, and he regards me. “What about our results? Are you meeting me at the university?”

I make for the door. “No. I’m working, so I’ll log in online. Are you worried?”

“Of course not,” he says in blatant astonishment.

“I wish I had your certainty in life.”

“It isn’t possible with your talents.”

“And this is why I love you.” I lean in and kiss his cheek.

He shakes his head. “What was that for?”

“For being my best friend.”

He can’t help the startled pleasure in his eyes but covers it with, “I am pretty super, aren’t I? The best out of everyone.”

“See you later, champ.”

“Wes.” I turn at the door. “Listen to what he has to say.”