Chapter 19MILAWith Jase back to his old flirty self, and all my friends going about their everyday routines, I started to feel like my old self until I woke up this morning.
It’s my first day back at classes since the attack and my chest is filled with apprehension. I carefully do my makeup, so none of the fading bruises will be visible.
When I’m done getting ready for the day, my eyes glide over my reflection in the mirror. I look the same as I did before the attack.
But I don’t feel the same.
The nights have gotten much better, but that’s because I’ve been sleeping in Jase’s bed.
My gaze goes to my own bed. From tonight, I plan on sleeping in my room. I haven’t told Jase yet, but I’m sure he’ll be more than happy to have his space back for himself.
I’ve been trying my best to move forward, but I still feel… broken. I’m holding my breath like I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop.
I let out a huff, and getting up, I leave my room so I’ll get out of my head.
Walking to the living room, I hear Jase say, “You can head to class. I’ll walk with –” Seeing me, he stops talking, and his eyes drift over me.
He stares at me so long, I glance down at the jeans and sweater I’m wearing. “Is there something wrong with my clothes?”
Jase shakes his head, and a grin tugs at his mouth. He walks to me, and wrapping his hand behind my neck, he pulls me closer and presses a kiss to my forehead.
I hear him take a deep breath, then he murmurs, “Mhhh… you smell good.”
He’s been doing that a lot. Making comments about me looking beautiful and how he likes the perfume I’m using.
I don’t think I’ll ever get used to this side of Jase. And, honestly, it makes it a whole lot harder to get over him.
Taking my bag from me, Jase says, “Let’s get you to class.” I watch him check something on his phone, then he says, “We have ten minutes. Want to grab a coffee or something to eat on the way?”
I try to take my bag back from Jase, but he grabs hold of my hand and link our fingers.
Scowling at him, I say, “You’re not walking me all over campus, Jase.”
“It’s not open for discussion.” Jase drags me to the front door, and I give Jade a look asking for help.
She just joins us and says, “I’ve tried talking to him, but he won’t listen. Let’s go, or we’ll be late.”
Taking the elevator down to the ground floor, I free my hand from Jase’s and cross my arms over my chest, mumbling, “I don’t need babysitters.”
Jase ignores my comment, reading something on his phone. I inch closer to him and glance at the screen, then I instantly wish I hadn’t as I read the text messages Jase is scrolling through.
Summer: My family is hosting a benefit function, and I’d love to have you there. It’s Saturday at six pm. xoxo
Rachel: Hey, Jase. Just wanted to let you know I’m thinking of you. All my hugs & kisses.
Jessica: I miss you!!!!! Let me know when you’re done babysitting so we can hang out. Promise to make it worth your time.
Ugh, I should’ve known better.
The doors open, and I dart out of the confined space, then I remember Jase has my bag and swinging around, I grab it from him before walking away as fast as possible.
My heart splats somewhere at my feet. Angry at myself for even caring, I cross my arms over my chest and storm out of the building.
“What’s the hurry?” Jase says as he catches up to me.
Stopping, I glare at him. “You obviously have things to do. Hell, all those messages alone should take you the whole day. I’ll be fine on my own. Go freaking service your harem.”
I stalk away, more adamant than ever to put distance between Jase and myself. This has to stop, or I’ll end up losing my damn mind.
Jase grabs hold of my arm, and when he yanks me back, I slam into him. He takes my bag from me, and glaring at me, he snaps, “First of all, there’s no fucking harem. Secondly, stop fucking fighting me on this. I’m walking you to class. That’s the end of the discussion.”
I scowl up at him, and for a moment, our angry gazes collide.
Shit, he looks unbelievably sexy when he’s upset.
Shut up, Mila. Focus!
I try to free my arm from his hold, as I snap, “I don’t need you.”
Jase steps right up to me, and lowering his head, he keeps hold of my eyes as he says, “Are we back to lying to each other? Because we both know that’s not true.”
I become aware of students staring at us, and not wanting to make a bigger scene, I step away from Jase. “Let go of my arm.”