Reckless Hero

I tried to focus on what the white-bearded man said, just like I tried to take notes and give my input on the handout. However, the spicy scent of Tucker’s cologne kept me distracted. I could remember that scent so well…

Late into the nights we used to spend together so long ago, I would put my nose against his neck and inhale that scent as we cuddled and drifted off to sleep. That same scent had clung to the t-shirts he would give me to sleep in, as well as his hoodie whenever I borrowed it.

That scent reminded me of security and love.

Sitting beside Tucker in class, fighting those memories felt like an uphill battle.

I practically sighed in relief when the professor dismissed class.

When Tucker went up the professor’s desk to submit our assignment, I took the opportunity to escape. I hurriedly stuck my belongings into my bag, hopped out of my seat, and rushed for the exit.

“Anna,” Tucker called.

I ignored him, leaving the building and heading straight for the parking lot toward my car. This was my last class for the afternoon, and I had to pick Garrett up from the daycare.

“Hey Anna, wait up,” Tucker called out.

The voice sounding a lot closer than I expected, I turned around to find him standing right behind me like a wall. Startled, I bounced off the hardness of his chest. Losing my balance, I gasped. But right before I hit the tiled floor, a pair of strong hands grabbed my upper arms and lifted me. Before I knew it, I was pressed against Tucker. My fingers tangled in the fabric of his shirt as I looked up at him.

“We worked well together today, just like before,” he said, smirking.

I straightened up and gave him a look. “With our history, I don’t think I have to explain why that’s not exactly a good thing.”

“I hardly think our history factors into the fact that we work well together,” he said slowly, as if speaking to a child.

I sighed, not wanting to argue with him in the middle of the hallway. “It's just not a good idea, Tucker. Let’s just leave it at that.” I hoisted my bag on my shoulder, ready to continue on my way. But for some reason, my feet stayed rooted in place. I watched as he opened his mouth, already knowing he was going to say something to upset me.

“No, let’s discuss this,” he said. “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 a suggestive eyebrow.

I placed a hand on my hip. “You’re not nearly as irresistible as you think,” I said, annoyed, although it was an outright lie.

Tucker grinned. “Then prove it,” he challenged. “Let’s be study buddies. We’ll hit the books without letting the past get in the way. We’re both responsible and sensible adults, right? There’s no harm as long as we stay focused. I mean, unless you’ve got other things you want to focus on…”

The tone of his voice made his words sound like a dare.

“Tucker!” I yelled in frustration.

“Just joking. Seriously, let’s just study together. You were always a good partner.”

I sighed. “Fine,” I said, the word coming out from between clenched teeth. I would show him. After all, responsible and sensible were my middle names. “We can study together.”

He gave a triumphant smile and I wanted to kick myself for falling so neatly into his trap. But I knew I couldn’t back out now.

“How about we start tonight?” he suggested.

I nodded. “All right.”

“Want me to come over to your place?”

“No!” I said too loudly, imagining the horror of him coming into my home.

Of him meeting Garrett.

I couldn’t let that happen.

He gave me a puzzled look, as did a few others passing by.

I cleared my throat. “No,” I said more calmly. “We can meet up at your place. Are you staying with your mom?”