Page 64 of Resurgent

"I wasn't—ok, I might be…I kissed my best friend!”

He laughs, which is both horrifying and calming…which doesn’t even make sense!

"You did."

"Mattey, I'm so sorry!"

His teasing expression softens.

"And you know that's not it!" I rush on. "I just... I felt sick lying to you. Like I was tricking you into doing something you'd hate me for just because of the mission."

"Lee." His voice is quiet now. "I know every hair on your head." Gently, he takes my hands, pulling them down so I’m no longer covering my face. "Every nervous tell." A fond smile tugs at his mouth. "And the Gods know I've seen you dance far too many times not to recognize your moves, even in a crowded bar."

I blink.

"...You knew?"

"Before you even walked over to me."

"You couldn’t have! How?"

“I’m not telling all my secrets, buuutttt, the first one was the way you roll your wrist when you need a confidence boost.”

"I don’t—"

“You do. It used to be your ankle, but it switched to wrist after I bought you the new bracelet. Obviously, you just like to remind yourself that I’m always with you…even when you’re actively trying to get my attention so you can get your hands on the goods for yourself.”

"I'm never speaking to you again,” I laugh. Pushing him in the chest.

"No?"

"No."

"That's unfortunate."

His arms wrap tightly around me, one hand settling against the back of my head the way they always have whenever I've needed grounding.

Only then do I realize my cheeks are wet.

I'm crying.

When did I start crying?

Matt lets out a quiet laugh.

"Hey."

He squeezes me tighter.

"There's nothing to be sorry for."

I sniff.

"It was honestly entertaining watching you try to act like the girls I usually go out with."

"I was that obvious?"

"Lee..." He chuckles. "You looked like you'd rather kiss Lucas."