Page 42 of Unwritten Rules (Rules 1)

“I can’t believe he didn’t tell me. This is great. I think a girlfriend might be really good for him. Might set him straight. I’ll call him tomorrow morning.” The excitement in her voice is unmissable. “Good night, sweetheart.”

She smiles warmly and exits the kitchen. I drag my feet toward the stairs and curse under my breath.

Life hates me—the return.

FOR THE PAST HOUR, I HAVE been doing two things I am proud to say I excel at: lying in bed and procrastinating. I can’t bring myself to call Kendrick to tell him that I messed up again. Maria’s going to want to meet his girlfriend, but there’s just one slight problem—she doesn’t exist. I keep on reaching for my phone to call him but end up talking myself out of it every time.

As soon as I walked into my room, I saw I had ten messages from Will and Alex. I texted them that I was fine. They completely freaked out when Haze lost them. All they could do was trust that he wouldn’t hurt me. A notification pops up on my screen, interrupting my thoughts.

I have a new message.

Haze: Just realized I forgot to give you your pencil back

Speaking of Haze.

I find myself smiling, I forgot about the pencil I handed him in English class. I’m surprised he remembered.

Winter: You know what else you forgot?

Haze: What

Winter: To take a hint.

Haze: Ouch. And I thought tonight went well.

Winter: Sorry. Had to. It was too easy.

Haze: How’d it go. You still alive.

Winter: Barely. She bought it for now. Thanks for the jacket.

Haze: No problem, gorgeous.

He might be a decent person after all.

Haze: When can I give you your pencil back? How about tomorrow night ;) Your place

And… he’s back.

Winter: Sure. Come over at 9 ;)

Haze: Really?

Winter: No.

Haze: Why you gotta be so cruel

Winter: I already see you in my nightmares

, Adams. Don’t need you in my house, too.

Haze: You know I’ll never stop trying ;)

Winter: Why are you texting me?

Haze: Why are you replying

Winter: You’re not answering my question.