I grab my backpack and move to the door. "You ready to go?" I look to Dean. "You and Brendon can meet us there."
"I didn't drive." He fights the irritation seeping into his voice.
"It's only five blocks to my place." Brendon steps forward. "We'll grab my car there."
"Awesome." Dean folds his arms.
Worry spreads over Iris's expression.
I don't know what the hell Dean doesn't like about her, but I don't care.
I like her.
I want her in my life.
That's how it's going to be.
Chapter Twelve
Walker
I wipe my brow as I step out of the car. Even in the shade, it's hot.
Iris presses her door closed. She slings her backpack over her shoulders and lets out a soft sigh. Her lips press together. Her eyes meet mine. "You're still wearing the shirt."
"I am."
"We have a deal."
I pull my t-shirt over my head and toss it in the car. This is also going to get on Dean's nerves, but he can kiss my ass. I put up with a truckload of his attitude and he can't tolerate me inviting someone on a hike?
Iris moves around the front of the car.
She slides her backpack off one shoulder and pulls out a tube of sunscreen. She's slow about popping the cap and squeezing it onto her fingers.
She was quiet the entire drive. She turned the radio on to the local rock station and stared out the window. Because of Dean's bullshit or because of something else?
"You okay?" I turn so she can get my back.
"Yeah. A little tired."
"Not enough coffee?"
"Never enough coffee." Her fingers glide over my right shoulder. She takes her time smoothing out the lotion and rubbing it in.
It's more sweet than sexual.
More domestic than carnal.
I shouldn't like it.
But I do.
She squeezes sunscreen on my other shoulder. Takes her time rubbing it in. "He's your friend. I'm sure you know him better. But I read people pretty well."
"Iris the shrink?"
"Yeah. And he doesn't want me here."