Dear Love, I Hate You (Easton High)

Leaning against the kitchen island, arms folded over his chest, pale eyes set on me. How did I not see him?

“I-I wasn’t hiding,” I stammer.

He glances at the bathroom door, biting back a grin.

Oh my God.

It sounds like I’ve been taking a shit this whole time, doesn’t it?

“Not that I was… you know,” I sputter. “I wasn’t. I actually didn’t even have to go, I…”

Stop.

Fucking.

Talking.

I clear my throat. “What are you doing in here? Looking for a shoulder to cry on?”

Xavier arches an eyebrow. “What makes you think I need one?”

“Gee, I don’t know, maybe because your girlfriend just made out with another dude in front of you? Forgive me for thinking you’d care. Won’t ask again.”

“Why did you? You worried about me, Harper?” he taunts, a devilish smile tugging at his lips. “Or were you hoping you could be my shoulder to cry on?”

“I’d rather set myself on fire,” I deadpan.

“You sure? Position’s still open,” he teases, pushing off the kitchen island and stalking toward me.

Is he… flirting with me?

Nah, don’t be ridiculous, Vee.

He’s just bored.

“Positive.” I back away, refusing to let his charms get to me.

“Eh, it’s just as well,” he concludes. “Pretty sure I’d have to be sad to actually need your shoulder.”

“And you’re not?”

“Why would I be? We’re not dating.”

“Why invite her here if you’re not dating?”

He rubs at the back of his neck. “Fuck if I know. Moment of weakness, I guess? She’s so persistent I told her I’d think about giving it another go if everything went fine tonight. And well… we all know how that turned out.”

I have a feeling Brie’s stunt with Axel just sealed the deal. He’s not taking her sorry ass back anytime soon.

“So, you’re really done with her?”

He scoffs. “I’m not getting back together with her if that’s what you’re wondering.”

Neither of us speak for a few seconds.

“What about you, Little Vee? You talking to anyone?” he asks.

I pause.