Page 119 of Against All Odds

Two minutes pass before he responds.

AIDAN: When are we rescheduling tutoring for this week?

RYLAN: You tell me. You’re the one who canceled on Tuesday.

As soon as I send it, I regret it. I would have had troublebreathingwith a bruise like his, let alone studying.

As far as excuses go, I’ve definitely heard worse.

RYLAN: We both know your schedule is busier than mine.

AIDAN: Just pick one of the times that’s open on it, then.

AIDAN: Or send me *your* schedule, and I’ll do it.

RYLAN: Fine. I’ll email you tonight.

AIDAN: Text me.

AIDAN: I only check my school email once a month.

RYLAN: Please tell me you’re kidding.

AIDAN: I prefer talking in person.

AIDAN: For example, you showing up in my bedroom instead of just texting me back? A plus plus, tutor.

This is when I should stop texting him. I can feel our conversation veering into dangerous territory.

RYLAN: How’s your bruise?

AIDAN: If you wanted a shirtless pic, you just had to ask.

When I don’t reply, he texts again.

AIDAN: If I say it looks awful and feels worse, will you rub my back again?

RYLAN: No.

AIDAN: Worth a shot.

AIDAN: I’ll live.

AIDAN: Thanks for asking.

I wonder if anyone else has.

Do guys talk about injuries with each other or is it all macho, tough guy shit? I know his parents aren’t checking in on his health.

“Sorry. Long line.”

Theo returns to his spot next to me.

“No problem.” I fix a smile on my face, then finally give in to the urge to glance over at Aidan.

He’s with the same two guys, plus a group of four girls who’ve materialized from somewhere. The one standing closest to Aidan is currently getting glared at by the girl working the espresso machine. I recognize her from the last time I was in here at the same time as Aidan, and it appears the torch she’s holding for him is still blazing.

Aidan glances at me before I can look away, catching me staring. His expression is unreadable.