Playing (Inked Hearts 2)

> She shakes it off. "It's just a hobby."

"It could be more."

"No... I don't think so."

"Why not?"

She looks me in the eyes. Her voice gets strong. Confident. "Because it's my life and I can do what I want."

I can't argue with that. But it's not the reason. "I have a proposition for you."

She perks. "I'm listening."

"I'll watch all four movies with you."

Kaylee claps her hands together. Joy spills over her expression. Her eyes get bright. Her lip corners turn upward. Her brow relaxes. "Okay. Right now? All night?"

"Right now. All night. Can you really stay awake?"

"For Katniss? Of course."

"I bet you can't."

Her eyes narrow. Yeah, bets are a bit of a sore subject. But I don't see another way to make this happen.

"Okay." She taps her fingers against her thigh. "I bet I'll stay awake. What are the terms?"

"You're registering for classes this weekend?"

"Yeah. And?"

"If you fall asleep, you have to register for a creative writing class."

"I don't know..."

"If you're sure, what's it hurt to bet?"

She presses her lips to one side. "If I win, I get to pick your next tattoo. And you get no veto power."

"Harsh."

"Well, if you're sure, what's it hurt to bet?" She smiles as she throws my words back at me.

"True." I am sure. And I actually trust her not to fuck me over. Even though I deserve it. "You're on."

Chapter Nineteen

Kaylee

There are arms around me.

Strong arms.

Lines of ink wrap around soft skin.

Brendon's sleeve.

His footsteps are steady as he moves down the hallway.