Page 39 of Running Winter

I was jealous, fuck it. But only because I just didn’t understand why Rayna only saw me as a friend.

"Good. We will pick you up if you want, but for the love of God, don't end up with—"

"Rafe, man, shut up," I warned, dragging my backpack on.

Nina and Kendra were walking up the school corridor, and Rafe groaned.

Rayna raised her eyebrows at me, and I waited for Kendra to lose her shit with Rafe, but she just gave him the evil eye.

"Hey Chase," Nina said, grinning at me. I couldn't help but notice her ignoring Rafe and Rayna, but I shrugged regardless. "Are you going to Blanc tonight?"

"Yes, we are. Are you gonna be there with your skanky boyfriend?" asked Rafe innocently, as Nina rolled her eyes.

"Jared and I aren't an item," Nina replied tersely, her gaze now on me. "I'm single."

"And no doubt riddled," mumbled Rafe as Kendra shot him a disgusted look.

"So, are you going?" Nina repeated, her eyes locked on mine.

She was hot, but I'd seen her at the party.

That kind of girl was not for me.

"I'll probably see you there. By the shed, if there is one," I smirked as Rayna gasped, whacking me on the arm.

Rafe burst out laughing when Nina glared at me.

"You're just as bad as Rafe. You're both dicks," Nina hissed, glaring at Rayna. "You must be desperate to be hanging around these two all of the time."

Rayna doesn't respond. She just watches them walk away with a bemused expression.

"I hate girls," Rayna muttered as Rafe snorted.

"But you're a girl."

"I'm not stupid, though. I haven't slept with either of you, and I'm ready to pity the fools that you end up with." Rayna grinned.

Pity?

"Babes, let me tell you something," said Rafe, leaning towards her.

His hair was still wet from the shower, and I could see the desire burning in her eyes.

Who is she trying to kid?

"I will never settle down."

"Oh yeah? Guys that say that always settle down," Rayna shot back, arching a brow at Rafe. "You just need a girl who won't take your shit. Someone stupidly hot."

"Know anyone?" Rafe winked, and I decided I couldn’t listen anymore.

"When you've finished flirting, can we go?" I snapped, and I didn't miss the startled look on Rafe’s face.

"Flirting? Nah, honestly—"

"Rafe, save it. Rayna, do you need a ride home?" I asked, avoiding her eyes.

"No, I'm good, I'm—"

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