Page 50 of Quarterback Sneak

What?She mouths.

I shake my head and focus on Zane. “But you don’t date.”

“I didn't,” he corrects. “Not until now.”

“Why? Why me?” I ask the question burning in my mind.

“Why you? Hmmm, let me see.” He’s quiet just for a moment, but my heart beats faster, waiting for his words. “You’re kind, a hard worker, you put others first, you don’t flirt with every male on campus, you don’t care about the most recent trends or styles. You’re comfortable in your own skin, and I just like you for you. It doesn’t hurt that you’re gorgeous as well.” I feel my face heat at his words, and I have no idea what to say to that. “Did I scare you away again?”

“I’m still here.” My words are soft. Reality hits when I think about Jace. I try to find my resolve that’s been buried underneath Zane’s kind words and actions. “I’m dating.” I’m pretty sure my words are the equivalent of cold water on our conversation.

“I know. That’s the only reason why I haven’t asked you out on a date, yet.” It’s theyetthat captures my attention. “But make no mistake, Evie. As soon as you’re not, I’ll make the move.”

“What if I continue to date Jace?”

“You won’t.” His voice is confident. “You’ll find the courage to break up with him. When you do, I’ll be waiting for you.”

His words stir something inside me, and suddenly, I want nothing more than to make that a reality. “Zane, can I ask you a question?”

“Of course.”

“I’m not a guy—”

His low chuckle interrupts my train of thought. “No, you’re not. Thank goodness for that.”

I don’t let his words deter me. “I just meant you’re a guy; maybe you can give me insight.” I push forward, past my nerves. “This may make me sound lame, but I’ve never dated before. So, I guess I don’t know what’s normal or not. Is it normal for the guy to order for the girl?”

“Did you ask him to order for you?”

“No.”

“Did he ask you what you wanted to eat, or did he just decide for you?”

“He didn’t ask. If he would have, I would have never told him crab legs.” I shudder even now.

“Do you like seafood?” he asks.

“No, I can’t stand seafood. The smell is enough to make me want to throw up.”

“Good to know. Did he ask you where you wanted to eat?”

“No, I didn’t realize we were going to a seafood restaurant until we were inside, and it was already too late. Okay, so it’s not normal for the guy to order for the girl without at least asking what she wants. Good to know. What about drinking?”

“What about it?” he asks, his voice changing slightly.

“Do you normally drink on a date?”

He’s quiet a moment. “I guess that depends.”

“I don’t drink. Ever. I mean besides the fact that I’m underage, I still wouldn’t drink even when I turn twenty-one.” I know my voice comes across as harsh, but I don’t care.

“Okay,” he says easily. As if sensing I need a topic change, he asks, “So, you’re at a fancy restaurant. What’s your order?”

“It wouldn’t be at a fancy restaurant. It would be Panda Express or something like that.”

He laughs. “Well, what if youdidgo out to a nice restaurant. What would be your order?”

I shrug a moment, even though he can’t see. “I’m not really sure. Chicken strips?”