Page 127 of Love Me

She hops out, and I drive to Dane’s place.

He has money and influence if he can afford to live in a damn mansion by himself off campus grounds. He opens the door, looking disheveled. Pacing around, he says, “Tell me what you’re planning.”

“First tell me what you did.”

“That’s between me and Abi, but she told me what they did to her, and now I am one step away from setting this world on fire.”

“You have a penchant for it.”

He rushes past me, and I grip his elbow.

“Dane, listen to me.”

“You don’t get it, I saw her… I…” He shudders, and I ease instantly. He loves her. Good to know.

“There is a lot at stake, and if you do something reckless, you will put us all in danger.”

“I am not a patient guy.”

Something pushes me to take him on board. “Can I trust you?”

“You can.”

Everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves. This is his, and I hope he will get the girl at the end. Because I relate to him.

“Don’t blow this.”

“I won’t.”

My phone pings, and it’s a message from Kaden.

Baby?

I reply. Have something to do. It won’t take long.

The dots appear, then disappear, a clear sign he’s mad.

“One more thing. The group has to accept you,” I say to Dane.

“Whatever.”

“Bye.”

I wave and put his house behind me. He’s like a lone wolf, but maybe I understand that better than anyone. Finding your tribe anchors you and gives you meaning, even a sense of belonging. I was given that chance, and I want to pass it on.

When I park the car, the second I am in the house, Kaden slams his mouth down on mine, claiming and demanding. So hot. So him.

“I knew you were fucking.”

A light switches on. I burst into laughter when I find Hunter by the switch. Bailey peeks from the couch, and Mia peers from behind the curtains, playing along for show.

Abi rolls her eyes at him. “I already told you that. Ugh, this is so beneath me.”

Blake runs down the stairs.

“Did I miss it?”

“There is nothing to miss, idiots,” Kaden grumbles, dragging a hand down his face.

---