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His easy-going manner falls away as he frowns. “Actually, I think that’s a shit idea.”
“Oh?” She perks up like a bloodhound who’s picked up a scent. “And why would that be?”
“Because he’s a hockey player.” He gives her a sharp look. “You know how those guys are.”
Her expression turns icy. “Actually, I do. Kind of like the football players?”
Easton has the good grace to wince. “Yeah, I guess so,” he mumbles, aware of the unfortunate circumstances surrounding her breakup.
“Anyway,” she says before the moment can turn awkward, “Sash needs to get back into the dating game. It’s been a while since her last,” she pauses, and I’m almost afraid ‘hookup’ will shoot out of her mouth, “boyfriend. Maybe you can help convince her that she needs to sweep out the cobwebs every once in a while.”
Oh my god. Please tell me she did not just say that.
If only the sidewalk would open up and swallow me whole. Let’s hope a mental image hasn’t come to his mind of what that would actually look like.
Easton’s brows pinch together as he eyes me with a frown. “If you’re looking for a guy, there are some nice ones in my English class. I could check with a couple of them and see if they’re interested.” Before I can formulate a response, he continues, “But stay away from the hockey players.” There’s a pause. “And the football players. You know what? Just stay away from the athletes in general. Then we won’t have any problems.”
Is he really trying to fix me up with other guys?
Even though I steel myself against the onslaught, a tidal wave of heartache crashes over me. If I’d been secretly holding out hope that Easton might feel something romantic toward me, it’s clear from this five-minute convo that’s not the case.
When I remain silent, he reiterates for a second time, “Just do me a favor and steer clear of Ryder.” He glances in Brooke’s direction. “You don’t need to worry about Sasha’s dating life. She’ll get out there when she’s good and ready.”
Before Brooke can react, he says, “All right, I gotta take off.” His gaze cuts back to mine. “You want to grab lunch later?”
Under normal circumstances, I’m always happy to spend time with Easton. After this enlightening discussion, however, I’m going to take a pass.
“No, sorry.” I make up an excuse on the fly. “I need to meet with one of my professors about an assignment.”
He shrugs as if it doesn’t matter to him one way or the other.
It’s yet another nail in the coffin.
“All right. I’ll text you later.” With a quick wave, he disappears through the crowd of students moving across campus.
Always one to strike when the iron is hot, Brooke clears her throat. “So, about Ry—”
“I’ll do it,” I snap before I can change my mind.
Her eyes widen as if not expecting my easy capitulation. “Really? You’ll go out with him?”
I press my lips together until they feel bloodless and nod. “Yeah.”
It’s most likely a decision I’ll end up regretting in the not-so-distant future, but that doesn’t negate the fact that Brooke is right. I need to move on and stop holding out hope that Easton will ever see me as anything other than a friend.
Chapter Two
Easton
“Dude, I’m starving. Hurry the fuck up,” Crosby bellows across the first floor of the house. “It’s Tuesday and I’m in desperate need of tacos.”
I shake my head before scooping up my keys and heading toward the front door.
“Woah, woah, woah. Why wasn’t I invited? Everyone knows I like tacos.” Asher tosses the Xbox controller onto the coffee table before rising to his feet. Disgruntled noises escape from the two blondes snuggled up against him.
“I didn’t realize you needed a formal invitation.” I hesitate in the entryway.
“You know what? Sometimes it might be nice to feel a little wanted. We’ve been in this relationship for three years and it doesn’t feel like you appreciate me the same way you did in the beginning. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that you’ve been taking me for granted lately.”
