“I have a rule,” I say, lifting my chin bravely.
“A rule?” He crosses his arms over his chest which makes the muscles in his biceps bulge.
“Yeah. You have your rules about our friendship, and I have mine.”
He nods as he cocks both his eyebrows.
“Let me hear your rule.”
“Don’t be a dick.”
The corner of his mouth twitches, which quickly makes me add, “And smile. Fewer glares and more smiles.”
“Is that all?”
“For now,” I chirp. I walk by Marcus and go pay for my purchase.
We listen to more of his playlist as I drive him back to his house. After every song, I ask him who sings it.
I stop the car in front of the driveway and smile at Marcus.
“Thank you for coming with me.”
“Sure,” he mumbles as he opens the door.
I quickly take hold of his arm and leaning over, I press a kiss to his cheek.
“See ya.”
The frown is back on his forehead, but he doesn’t make any mean remarks about the kiss. Instead, he gets out of the car, closes the door, then walks up the driveway without looking back.
“I’m going to get through to you, Marcus Reed,” I whisper as I pull away from the curb.
Chapter 6
MARCUS
After spending yesterday morning with Willow, I feel more confused.
I don’t know how to process everything. When I’m around Willow, it feels good. I’m still cautious, but the need to get to know her is growing stronger.
That’s until she leaves, then all the fears come rushing back.
I’ve never felt so unsettled before. Half of me wants to spend more time with her, while the other half wants to run screaming for the hills.
After lunch my phone beeps. I grin when I see the name I gave Willow on the screen. ET, which is my short version for Elton, seeing as she loves his music so much.
I open the message and let out a burst of laughter.
ET: What does VBC stand for?
Me: Very Big Cock.
ET: ‘Rolls my eyes.’ Only you would name yourself that on my phone.
ET: What name did you give me on your phone?
Me: ET.