“I hardly think our history factors into the fact that we work well together.” He said this slowly as if speaking to a child.
His tone didn’t help my disposition one bit.
I sighed, not about to get into this in the middle of the hallway where several other students were moving about.
“It's just not a good idea, Wyatt. Let’s just leave it at that.”
I hoisted my bag on my shoulder, ready to continue on my way. The considering look Wyatt gave me sent a premonition of impending disaster but my feet remained rooted in place even though I told them to move.
Before he opened his mouth I knew he was going to say something that would make me mad.
I was right.
“No, let’s discuss this. Why don't you think we should study together? Is it because you don’t think you can keep your hands off me?”
He raised an eyebrow to end his proclamation.
My outraged inhale seemed loud even with the noise around us.
“You’re not nearly as irresistible as you think,” I told him, hand coming up to rest on my hip in a show of attitude.
Something inside me said, Liar.
I ignored that voice.
“Then prove it. Let’s be study buddies. We hit the books without letting the past get in the way of our school stuff. We are both responsible, sensible adults. There’s no harm as long as we act that way. I mean unless you don’t want to…”
There a challenge in the words he spoke and I could stop from accepting his dare.
“Wyatt!”
“Fine, I’m joking, but really let’s study. You were always a good partner.”
I sighed. I would show him. After all, responsible and sensible were my middle names.
“Fine,” I said, the word coming out from between clenched teeth. “We can study together.”
His smile was wide. Triumphant.
I wanted to kick myself for falling so neatly into his trap but I couldn’t back out now though.
“How about we start tonight?”
That eyebrow rose again in challenge and I found myself unable to back down. Again.
“Tonight,” I agreed.
“Want me to come over to your place?”
“No!” My denial was too loud as I imagined the horror of Wyatt coming into my home. Of him meeting Noah.
I couldn’t let that happen. Not for as long as I could help it.
Wyatt gave me a puzzled look and a few of the other students did too.
“No,” I said more calmly. “We can meet up at your place. Are you staying with your mom?”
“No, I got my own apartment so I could be closer to campus.”