End Game (Bellevue Bullies 4)

When she grabs my face, squeezing it to make my lips purse, I somehow get out, “Mom!”

Amelia is cackling like a witch, but Sofia looks like she’s two seconds from finding an exit. “I hate you both.”

I laugh along with everyone as I drink her in. She’s so pretty when she’s embarrassed. The way her cheeks turn bright red and she presses her lips together is damn near irresistible. She doesn’t hate me one bit, and I know it.

And I sure don’t hate her.

After saying bye to my mom, we pile into my truck and head back to campus. Amelia is talking animatedly about whatever it is that is exciting her at the moment, but I pay her no mind. Sofia took her shoes off, and now her feet are on the dash of my truck, making me feel like we’re in a country song. Her little teal and black painted nails are driving me wild. My hand is in hers, and her fingers lace with mine so naturally. It’s a simple touch that leaves me breathless. I have had the hottest sex ever with plenty of girls, but none of that made me feel the way Sofia’s hand makes me feel. It’s weird, almost private. I think it’s because she’s somewhat shy, which is crazy since I’ve watched her dance like no one is watching at a meet. She’s shy around me, and I like that. I like that I make her feel like this, ’cause she makes me feel the same.

As I glance over at her, she leans her head back, her gaze meeting mine, and her lips turn up. Fuck, I can’t get enough of her. I feel like I’m in a little over my head. I was so set on just having fun this year, concentrating on school and hockey, but then this girl flipped into my life, and I sure as hell don’t know what I’m supposed to do with these feelings. It’s crazy how fast things change. How one person can just change it. But I’m also terrified. What if she’s just in this for fun? She resisted me like crazy; that has to mean something.

I don’t want to accept that.

Taking a deep breath, I ask, “Did you have fun tonight?”

She sighs. “I’m unsure how my mom does three jobs, but I have a new respect for her, for sure.”

I nod. “Working sucks sometimes.”

“I think everyone at the party was an alcoholic.”

Amelia giggles. “Table three was.”

We all laugh together as I get off the highway. “How was that computer science test today?”

Sofia groans beside me, leaning her head on my shoulder. “Well, I didn’t bomb it, but I worked for that B like no other. I stayed up all night last night studying. I’m beat.” She sends me a tired grin. “But your notes helped so much.”

“Yeah, if she can read your handwriting. Jeez, Ryan, did you forget there are supposed to be spaces between letters?” Amelia teases, and I glare back at her.

“No, but I’m about to forget how to drive you home.”

She sticks her tongue out at me while Sofia chuckles. I chance a peek at Sofia, and she’s watching me. A little grin tugs her lips up, and I feel good.

“If you need some extra help, I aced that class.”

“Oh yes, please. I hate not getting an A.”

“Yeah, no problem. I’ll even buy you a cup of coffee.”

She leans into me, fluttering her lashes at me. “And a Danish?”

I shake my head. “Well, yeah, but I’m eating half.”

She beams up at me. “Or you can get your own?”

Laughter fills the car as we arrive at their dorm. Parking, I turn off the truck and start to get out.

Sofia stops me. “You don’t have to walk us in. We’re together. We’ll be fine.”

“I want to.”

She wants to fight me, but then her lips are turning up in a sneaky grin. “You just want a kiss good night,” she accuses, sending a grin at Amelia, but she’s already out of the truck.

“Yup,” I answer, taking Sofia’s hand and helping her out. “Since I know you won’t let me take you out tonight.”

“I’m sorry,” she answers softly as I shut the door behind her. “But I’m glad you’re walking us, ’cause I do want a kiss too. I just didn’t want to inconvenience you.”

My heart thuds in my chest as I wrap my arm around her neck. “You can’t inconvenience me, Sofia.”

I kiss her temple, and then she looks up at me through her lashes. “Well, that’s a nice thing to say.”

“It’s the truth. Plus, I get to look at you. My favorite thing.”

She beams up at me, and I almost take those sweet lips with mine, but then my sister’s voice interrupts us. “I’m going to need a boyfriend or something. I can’t do this third-wheel bullshit,” she complains, throwing her hands up.

She stomps ahead of us, and I squeeze Sofia in closer. “I think she’s pissed.”

“Or annoyed.”

I nod. “She’ll be okay. You sure we can’t sneak away?”

“I’m really tired. I wouldn’t be much company.”

“Remember, I just want to stare at you.”

She snorts. “Believe me, you don’t want to stare at me when I’m drooling and snoring.”

I chuckle. “Maybe I do.”