Playing (Inked Hearts 2)

The entire world is mocking me.

"No. But you look just fucked." Dean nudges Leighton. "Doesn't he?"

She pushes her lips to one side. "Kinda, yeah. A lot." Her lips curl into a frown. "Does that mean it's over?"

"No."

She arches a brow.

"It was her."

She claps her hands together. "Really? You're back together? That's great, Walker. I knew you'd come to your senses."

"No." I run my fingers through my hair. I don't know how to explain this. Even to myself.

"Was it breakup sex?" Her voice gets soft. "Don't do breakup sex. Trust me. It's so much worse after."

"You tell me now?" I don't sell it as a joke.

"She wants to be with you." Leighton slides off her stool. She moves around the counter. "She's sorry. You're crazy about her."

"And?"

"What's stopping you?"

"Why do you care?"

"You're my friend, you idiot."

"Thanks for the concern."

"You are being an idiot," Dean says.

"See. That means a lot coming from him." Leighton slides her hand into the pocket of her denim skirt. "Why do you want to be miserable?"

"Why do you care?"

"I told you—"

"Why do you really care?"

"I TOLD YOU!"

"That can't be it."

"It's not a conspiracy. I like you. I like Iris. I like you and Iris together. I like hanging out with her. You have good taste in girlfriends."

"Then call her."

"You're okay with that?" she asks.

No. I'm not okay with anything. I'm not okay with the sun shining or the world turning. But—"We're not together. She can do what she wants."

"I'm going to."

"Good."

"Really, Walker. This isn't a dare. I'm going to call and take her out."