They shake, and King leaves. Saint turns to me.
“Learn anything else about the new girl last night?”
He’s acting like he’s not interested, but he wouldn’t have asked unless it was important.
I reply, “She’s in college. Going to be an accountant. That was about it.”
I sure as fuck don’t mention the part about complimenting her. That’s going to be our little secret.
Saint says, “Keep an eye on her tonight. I don’t want Psycho getting near her.”
I agree. “He won’t.”
“I’ll tell Jas I want her working the room. That ought to put her in a better mood.”
“The Prospect she had her eyes on is with one of the other club whores,” I warn him.
“There’s plenty of guys in from out of town. I think she’ll manage to find a way to stay busy.”
“She still trying to get in your bed?”
He snorts. “No. We had a little chat and she finally got the picture.”
There’s no telling what he had to say to make her stop. She was like a fucking bitch in heat when he’d come around. Damn near humped his leg one night, even though he wanted no part of it.
“I’m going to my room, but I’ll be on the floor before Olivia gets here.”
Saint nods. When I get to the door, he stops me.
“Bash.”
“Yeah, boss?”
“Keep your hands to yourself.”
“Will do, boss.”
Fuck.
Olivia
Lucy lets out a squeal when I show up at the library around six. My hair is still damp from my shower, where I washed away all signs of the guy who made my bank account a bit fuller. I was in such a good mood after that I decided to see Lucy.
“Oh my god. I can’t believe you really came.”
Someone makes shh-ing sound at her and she rolls her eyes.
She loudly answers back, “Finals are over. Suck my non-existent dick.”
I sit across from her and whisper, “I can’t believe you’re still in here.”
She grins. “I’m trying to get someone’s attention. See the guy at table up front? In the green shirt? Don’t make it obvious when you look.”
I do a casual glance over my shoulder and see two guys sitting a few tables over. The one in the green shirt is reading, and his friend is staring at me. He gives me a little wave and I turn around, rolling my eyes.
She bounces in her seat. “Oh my gosh! They’re both coming over here. You must be my lucky charm.”
Sure enough, a shadow falls over the table next to me. Looking up, I find the same guy smiling down at me.
“Hey there. I’m Chase and this is my friend, Andrew.”
The guy in the green shirt nods and sits next to Lucy. Chase sits next to me, and I try to not to say something sarcastic. I don’t do this – I don’t make small, flirty chit-chat with guys, unless I know it’s going to end in bed and with more money in my account.
Lucy lets out a throaty laugh. “I’m Lucy and this is my roommate, Olivia.”
Chase points at me. “I think we’re in the same English class. Row F?”
I try to place his face and then remember seeing him around.
“Yeah, that’s me. Good eye.”
He smiles. “Hard to miss such a pretty girl.”
I snort. “Thanks.”
He doesn’t miss a beat and asks, “Why are the two of you inside on such a nice day?”
Lucy sighs. “I had to turn in some books and thought I’d reserve some books I need for my summer class.”
Andrew replies, “Same here. What class are you taking?”
They fall into easy conversation while Chase and I listen.
He leans over and says in a low tone, “I think my friend likes your friend.”
“I think it’s mutual.”
He grins. “He’s been making me come here every day since he saw her a few weeks ago. Been trying to build up the courage to talk to her.”
“Wow. That’s really sweet.”
“He’s a bit shy.”
“I can understand that.”
“I’ve gathered that much.” At my questioning look, he goes on, “I’ve tried to catch up to you after class a few times, but you’re too fast.”
“Oh. Sorry.” I shift uncomfortably in my seat. “I’m usually going to one of my jobs after class.”
“No need to apologize. I figured we’d meet sooner or later if it was in our cards.”
“Our cards?”
“My dads’ are total hippies. They’re very into tarot cards and looking for signs.”
He gives me a sheepish grin that makes me smile back in return. Okay, he’s kind of cute and he’s really trying here.
“Are you taking any classes this summer?”
I reply, “No, thankfully. What about you?”
“I have to retake a math class and I signed up for a few speed courses.” He makes a face. “I still don’t get why I even have to take the math class. My degree has nothing to do with numbers.”
“I guess they just want everyone to be well-rounded.”
“Now you’re sounding like my parents.”
I laugh. “Sorry. I’m a math major, so I’m defensive over it, I guess.”
“A math major? Hello, this is a huge sign! We were meant to meet today. Maybe you can help me out with my class”
“Maybe,” I hedge. “I’m going to be working quite a bit this summer.”
“I totally get that. Maybe we can meet, like, once a week? Is that doable? It would really help me out.”
I find myself nodding. “Yeah, we can do that. And, I’m sure we won’t have to meet all summer. Most people just need to grasp one aspect. Once they do, everything makes sense.”
Andrew laughs across the table and says, “No offense, Olivia, but my man Chase here is horrible at math. You’re going to be demanding to be paid before this summer is over with.”
This makes everyone laugh, but I notice Chase’s ears turn pink.
I pat his arm. “I’m sure it’ll be fine.”
I can’t ignore the spark I feel when we touch and wonder if he feels it, too. Something dark inside of me wants to come out and play, but I shove the thought away. I just had sex earlier. I shouldn’t want to do it again, now, with him.
A librarian comes up to our table and says, “The library is closing early tonight for end of the year maintenance. Please return any books and have a good night.”
She gives Lucy a pointed look before going to another table. We all giggle as we help Lucy turn in the rest of her books. When we get outside, I’m surprised to see the sky is turning orange and pink as the sun sets. Lucy and Andrew move away from us as they chat.
“Jeez, what time is it?”
Chase glances at the watch on his wrist. “Almost eight.”
“Ugh. I better run. I need to change before I go into work.”
Chase opens his notebook and jots something down. “Here’s my number. Text me.”
“I will, I promise.”
“It was nice to finally meet you, Olivia.” He gives me a smile before taking off after Andrew.