Page 95 of Indian Summer

Cole:Are they? You seem to be ok in another room…

Me:How do you know I’m in another room?

Cole:Because I know you.

The smile faded. He did know. Knew me better than anyone.

Me:I don’t like you.

Cole:I know

He sent that with a sad smiley face. My heart skipped.

Me:Don’t be cute.

Cole:You think I’m cute?

I didn’t even…ugh!

Me:Will you stop it?

Cole:Nope

Me:You’re as bad as them.

Cole:Worse

Me:True! LOL

I stood and stared at the phone. There were no more three dots. I read the conversation again. Was this flirting? Why was I in the kitchen flirting with Colton when Jay was in my living room?

“You ok?” I jumped. Jay was standing in the doorway with two plates. He came into the room slowly. I hastily put my phone in my pocket.

“Yeah.”

“Who you texting?”

“Corey,” I lied

“Uh-huh,” he shook his head, “you’re a good cook.”

“It’s a pasta bake, they pretty much make themselves,” I mumbled.

“Sure.” He smiled at me. He looped a finger through my belt loop and pulled me forward. “I’m going to go. Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in there are here for the night.”

I grimaced.

“Want to go out tomorrow?”

“Where?” I asked.

“My friend’s having a party.” I tensed. “It’s ok, it’s not Aaron’s friends from the bar, different friends. You won’t know anyone.”

Is that a good thing?I wondered. He noticed I was unsure.

“I won’t let you out of my sight,” he tugged my chin up to meet him and he kissed me. I let him.

“Hey Ari, any more?” Theo asked as he came into the kitchen. Jay stood back in frustration.