Page 260 of Heartache Duet

“We’re friends, right?”

“What do you want?” he deadpans.

I smirk.

“Again?”

“Yep.”

“Connor, I can’t keep abusing—”

“I’ll take you to a party when we get back on campus.”

His eyes narrow. “Five.”

“Three.”

He offers his hand for a shake.

I accept, adding, “But I’m going to need a little more this time.”

“Dude…”

“I know. Three parties and I’ll introduce you to every girl who approaches us.”

His teeth show with his grin. “What do you need?”

“Can you see what classes people have registered for?”

He groans. “Really? This is officially stalking now, man.”

“No, it’s not. It’s… curiosity.”

He sighs, his face scrunched in frustration. “I’ve been your best friend—”

“No, you haven’t.”

“Shut up.”

I chuckle.

He continues, “I’ve been your best friend for almost a year now, and I have questions… lots of them… and I’ve never asked because I figured one day you’d give in and tell me all about this elusive Ava Diaz of yours… but you haven’t yet, and that’s no way to treat your best friend, Connor.”

I stare at him, silent.

Another sigh leaves him. “Is she an ex?”

“Yes.”

“From high school?”

“Yes.”

“And she broke your heart?”

“Yes.”

“And you’re a glutton for punishment?”