Page 12 of Should Our Stars Collide

“You.”

“Did I get you in trouble?” It’s hard not to laugh at Dawson’s obvious displeasure.

“Yes,” Dawson deadpans. “Technically, I’ve been in trouble with him ever since I decided to nurse Cal back to health after the accident, so…” He shrugs. “Although I have to admit, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him as ruffled as he was that day.”

Ash bites his lip to keep from smiling like a lunatic.

Is that so? Kieran seemed like such a loose cannon; Ash was sure he would react strongly at the smallest provocation. Did Ash’s low-tier teasing really make him so wound up that even Dawson was taken aback? How cute. How…flattering.

He has, of course, heard about Kieran from Dawson’s stories, none of which indicated what an intriguing personality Kieran has. Or pointed out the fact he might even be persuaded to play a game for Ash’s team, if that little sneak peek into his mind told Ash anything. Despite all his teasing, he didn’t expect Kieran to react like that. And given Kieran’s shocked reaction, he didn’t expect it either.

Like Ash said:intriguing.He can only imagine the thrill if Kieran let him uncover a whole new world for him.

Okay, enough fantasizing about adorable,angry brats. He’s at work.

“I have a penchant for bringing out strong emotions in people,” Ash points out unnecessarily.

“Don’t I know it,” Dawson says with a huff. “To be fair, you were doomed from the beginning. For some reason, Kieran despises psychologists. You might have picked up on that.”

“I have, yes.” It’s not uncommon to come across people who consider therapy a scam. Still, he’d really like to find out what the story is behind Kieran’s prejudice. “I don’t take it personally. It would be hypocritical of me.”

“What do you mean?”

“I went to study Psychology to spite my parents,” Ash explains, smiling indulgently. “Didn’t expect to make a career out of it.”

“A troublemaker. Figures.” Dawson shakes his head fondly. “What did your parents want you to be?”

Ash doesn’t bother reminding him he’s supposed to be the one asking questions.

“A businessman, ideally. Or a lawyer.” Just like them.

Dawson’s expression turns a little sheepish. “Is it bad that I think you’d be damn good at either?”

“Not at all. I know I would.” What better superpower to have than being able to see people’s thoughts when you’re trying to sell them something. Well, apart fromhearingtheir thoughts, like his father can, which would be even more convenient. “But look, I still get to experience the joy of managing my taxes and making sure my paperwork is up to date. Best of both worlds.”

Dawson laughs. “When you put it like that. You’re not too bad of a therapist either. A tad shady. But decent.”

“Wow. Thank you, Dawson, that means a lot,” Ash says, matching Dawson’s dry delivery.

“You’re welcome.”

“Now stop distracting me,” Ash chastises gently. “I believe I’m owed an intriguing story featuring painting and cacti.”

Dawson’s face couldn’t be brighter. “Oh, you are in for a treat…”

Ash sits back and just listens, the elation in Dawson’s voicebringing a smile to his face. So much has changed since Dawson first came to see him.

He only hopes this happiness will last for Dawson. If anyone deserves it, it’s him.

3

Kieran knew it. In his soul, he knew Dawson’s happiness wouldn’t last. Because the illusion wouldn’t last. He knew that Cal was just stringing Dawson along, pretending to be someone he’s not. It was a matter of time before Dawson got hurt again.

“I fucking told you so!” is what he wants to say when Dawson shows up on his doorstep two weeks after the movie date. But seeing his crestfallen face as he stands in the door, a duffel bag in one hand and a dog lead in the other, is enough to make Kieran swallow any harsh words. This isn’t about him. It’s not about being right. It’s about being there for his best friend. His only friend.

“Will you fucking spill the tea or do I have to resort to violence?” he demands when his attempt at sensitively coaxing Dawson into telling him what happened goes without success.

Infuriatingly, Dawson just shrugs, curled up on the sofa with his dog, Donut.