Page 64 of Spurred On

“Are you going to the engagement party?” Ben asked as he power-drove chow mein into his mouth with his chopsticks. They were sitting on the floor in Sidney’s apartment on either side of the coffee table enjoying a bottle of wine and several take-out boxes. One of the benefits of living in this tiny apartment was that there was an excellent Chinese restaurant downstairs. And Ben loved Chinese food. It was yet another thing they had in common.

Since their date, they’d spent a lot of time together, just hanging out. Nothing romantic, but it was wonderful to have someone like him in her life. A pity she couldn’t make herself fall for him.

“I have to go. It’s Hanna’s party.”

“You don’t have to go.”

“I do. She’s my sister. Besides, all my friends will be there. I miss them too.”

“I get it.” He took a sip of the Malbec. “But you know Voldemort will be there.” That’s what they called him, he who shall not be named.

Sidney grimaced. “I know. Trust me. I’ve been thinking about that.” A lot. “I’ll just avoid him.”

“That’s one idea.”

“You have another?”

“Maybe.”

“Well?” She leaned forward. “Spill.”

“I’m still working on it.” He sent her one of his mischievous glances.

She growled at him. “Do not torment me.”

“But it’s so much fun.” He leaned back and winked at her. “I love tormenting people.”

She forked more sweet and sour pork onto her plate. “I’ve noticed.”

He chuckled. “You should have seen him flip out when I mentioned we went on a date.”

Her heart lurched. “You told him we were dating?”

“He nearly popped his lid. That guy is nuts for you, you know.”

“Only because I don’t fall at his feet.”

“It’s a new experience for him, I suppose.”

“Humph.”

For some reason, Ben stilled and studied her for a moment. “Wait. Are you afraid that if he bags you, he’ll lose interest?”

“I’m not a five-point buck.”

“You know what I mean. Is that what you’re worried about?”

She crumpled her napkin. “Nooo.”

“Come on. I see it in your eyes.”

How annoying that he could practically read her mind. “It is his MO.”

“But . . . what if he really is into you?”

“What?” A squawk.

“What if he really is into you? Would you still want to walk away then?”