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“So, what else have you been up to?”
Besides making out with your brother? Not much. I’m obsessed with him. “Oh, I’m pretty focused on my practice sessions right now. Hard to fit much else in.”
“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”
Do I detect a bit of sarcasm? “Maybe when the season is over.”
“Where’s Zane? Do you see much of him? I hope he’s not bothering you.”
Oh, he’s bothering me all right—in the hot and bothered way. I stop pacing and meet eyes with Zane. He’s watching me with intense eyes.
I maintain eye contact with him. “No, Zane’s not bothering me at all. With work and renovations on his new home, our paths don’t cross often.”
Which is true. I wish we had more time together.
“I hope you’ve taken what I said to heart. He can’t be trusted. Don’t let your guard down for a second.”
Irritated, I tell him, “He’s given me no reason not to trust him.” I turn around and pace the floor once again. “Look, Ryker, did you call to talk about Zane or call to talk to me?”
“I called to hear your voice, of course. I miss you, Mila.”
“Ryker, I...”
“I know, I know. No need to say it all again. But I still look forward to seeing you when I return home.”
“I look forward to your return as well.” So I can officially end things face to face. I hope that sounded Switzerland enough. It’s the most I can give him.
Honestly, I look forward to Ryker’s return because then I can move out and not feel obligated to stay here. For the sake of my relationship with Zane, I need to sever all connections with Ryker. Until I move out, that won’t happen.
I look back at Zane. He hasn’t moved an inch. He’s still watching me, his expression brooding.
“Ishethere right now?” Ryker asks, his voice low.
“Yes, he’s here. Would you like to talk to him?”
He doesn’t answer. Instead he says, “Where is he?”
“He’s watching TV.” I run my fingers through my thick mane, massaging my scalp. I think a headache is coming on.
“Are you watching TV together?” he spits.
I breathe in and out deeply in an attempt to remain calm. I feel guilty about ending things with Ryker, but that feeling is quickly fading. “Yes, we’re watching TV together.” I refuse to say more. It’s none of his business. I’m really beginning to hate this awkward situation I find myself in. At least Ryker hasn’t mentioned the wordfallingagain during this uncomfortable phone call.
“Be careful, Mila. I can’t stress it enough. Zane is bad news.”
No, he’s not. He’s the best news I’ve ever had. The headline of my life.
“I’m only thinking of you. I have to go. Talk again later.”
The click of the phone seems loud in my ear. Ryker and his abrupt phone endings. When he’s done, he’s done.
I’m done too.
I let my hand fall to my side, feeling troubled.
I’m not uneasy about me and Zane. I’m uncomfortable with the location of our budding romance. I wish it wasn’t unfolding right here in Ryker’s penthouse. It makes me feel like he’s watching us, like I’m doing something wrong, engaging in forbidden love.
“That was awkward,” I say, my voice echoing around the room.
