actually love hanging with Bailey. But since she started going to BHU this fall, I cringe at the thought of her group gatherings. I don’t fit in with her friends from the university. While she might not care how they view a townie from the trailer park, I can’t ever get past what different worlds we come from. I tried to bring it up with Bail once, and she suggested—very politely, because she is my best friend—that I get over myself.
With a deep breath, I tuck my phone in my pocket, climb from the car, and begin navigating the rocky mound that separates the gravel lot from the old quarry. An autumn chill hangs in the air, and I’m glad I dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt. Because of the water and privacy, this spot is an old favorite for parties anytime the temp’s above freezing. Bailey said she and Mason are building a bonfire by the water tonight. It should be nice, actually. Assuming I can get over myself.
“Oh. Hey.”
I look up toward the deep voice and see Brogan standing on a rocky ledge that overlooks the lake. He’s dressed in a BHU Football sweatshirt and jeans that hug his narrow hips, and his smile falters as he takes me in.
“You didn’t know I’d be here, did you?” He tucks his hands into his pockets. “I told Bailey to let it go, but she’s . . . determined. I wouldn’t have come if I’d known. I don’t want to make you feel awkward.”
“No, I didn’t, but . . .” I glance around to take in the group and recognize Mason, Chris, and a couple of girls I’ve seen hanging out on Bailey’s floor in her dorm. He belongs here more than I do. “I’m not avoiding you. I’m sorry if I made you feel that way.”
He grins, showing off his straight white teeth. He really is handsome. “Can I get you anything to drink? We’ve got beer and vodka, and some fruit that’s been soaking long enough that it’d probably knock you on your ass.”
I shake my head. “I’m driving.”
His grin mellows to a softer smile. “Bailey said you were very responsible.”
I arch a brow. “Is that a bad thing?” Well, crap. Now I sound defensive.
“Do you have any idea how many drunk girls I see on campus every weekend? And that’s fine. We’re young. I get it. But I don’t know.” He shrugs. “It’s refreshing, honestly, to meet a girl who doesn’t think she has to drink half a bottle of cheap vodka to make friends.”
“Thanks, I guess.”
He opens his mouth, but his reply is cut off by Bailey’s scream from the other side of the fire. “She’s here!” She hustles over and wraps her arms around me, squeezing. “I’m so glad you’re here. Brogan’s here, too, but I see you already saw that.”
“Are you trying to play matchmaker, Bail?”
She grins and shimmies back toward the fire. “No idea what you’re talking about.” Mason grabs her from behind and wraps her up in his arms. Squealing, she spins and kisses him in that long, open-mouthed way that makes you wish you weren’t watching.
Sighing, I look to Brogan. “Are they like that all the time?”
He makes a face. “Pretty much. I mean, we’ve all started walking around the dorm room with our eyes closed and earplugs in, so I can’t tell you for sure.”
I laugh. “God, no one could blame you.” We walk toward the fire, and I take a seat on the grass close enough to hear the crackling of the burning wood and feel the heat, but not so close that I’ll feel like I have a sunburn. I pat the patch of grass beside me and look up at Brogan. “Wanna keep me company? Looks like Bailey might be otherwise occupied tonight.”
He grins and drops down to sit by my side. “It would be my pleasure.”
I tilt my head to the side. “Thanks for being nice to me.”
He frowns. “Why wouldn't I be?”
“I’ve kind of been a bitch to you.”
The corner of his mouth twitches as he bites back a smile.
“What?” I ask. “What’s that look for?”
“No offense, Mia, but I don’t think you know how to be a bitch. And besides, there’s nothing bitchy about turning down a guy who doesn’t interest you.”
I frown. “Who said you didn’t interest me?”
He lies back on the grass and threads his fingers through his hair as he stares up at the sky. “This conversation is awkward. You know