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Chapter 22
Layla Alexander
As I walk into my next class, my heart is pounding, not because of our hurried dash across campus, and not because a virtual stranger asked me out to dinner, but because of something Jason said.
He said I was amazing.
He only said that because he works for your parents. He’s sucking up.
You don’t know that. Maybe he meant it.
It’s job security. And for the record, he’s wrong. You’re just a trophy fuck, and you can’t even do that right. You’ve never fucked anyone.
Shut up.
Deny it all you want, but you know it’s true.
Did he really say that, or is it just wishful thinking on my part? God, wouldn’t it be incredible if someone liked me forme? Not for my money or my face. Not because of who I am, but just because I’mme? Because someone thought I was interesting or fun to be with.
Ha. That’s never going to happen.
You don’t know that.
Jason could have anyone he wanted. Look at him. He’s hot as hell. And you’re a fat, ugly, pathetic loser.
Shut up.
It’s the truth, and you know it.
It’s not.
My mind is racing, and my psychology class is all one big blur. I can’t focus on anything. We’re studying the developmental phases of toddlers, but I can’t stop thinking about what else Jason said—that Reese would be lucky to go out with me.
He didn’t mean it.
I ignore her.
He thinks you’re a pathetic child.
When class ends, I pack up my iPad and stylus, slip them into my backpack, and head to my next class for the day, which is chemistry. On the way, I stick my earbuds in and select one of my favorite playlists.Shewon’t shut up, and I need a distraction. Jason tries to initiate conversation as he walks me to my next class, but I don’t feel like talking. I can’t help thinking maybe she’s right about me and it is all just wishful thinking on my part.
When I walk into my classroom, I immediately spot Charlene sitting in her seat. I sit next to her, and Jason sits on my other side. The instructor walks in right after us, and I scramble to get ready to take notes.
Charlene leans close and whispers, “So, about Reese? What d’you think?”
My face heats as I flatten my lips to keep from smiling. Honestly, I’m not sure what I think about Reese—I hardly know him. Yes, he’s good-looking, but that’s all I really know. I guess I’m flattered that he asked me out, not once but twice. “I’m not sure.”
Charlene’s lips curve up. “Are you seriously considering his invitation?”
I shrug, but before I can say anything more, the instructor turns to face the class and begins lecturing.
I steal a glance at Jason, but he’s focused on his phone. It looks like he’s reading again. I like a guy who reads. For a moment, I consider the improbable possibility of Jason asking me out. Of course that would never happen. It can’t. I imagine it would be against his company’s rules. And I’m sure my parents would throw a fit and possibly fire him.
The thought of losing Jason is unacceptable. He’s only been with me a short time, but I’ve never had a better bodyguard. He’s actually nice to me and fun to be with. It feels like we’re just hanging out, and not like he’s paid to protect me.
But he is paid to protect you. He wouldn’t spend one second with you if he didn’t have to.
She loves reminding me that someone like Jason is out of my league. I know she’s right, but I don’t need my face rubbed in it.
