Page 83 of Love so Cold

Thank you, Roman.

That's enough now.

Roman

Last one

Slippery when Warm

Okay, I'm done now

I toss my phone onto the couch, running a hand through my hair. As I'm getting ready for bed, my phone chimes again. I sigh, expecting another quip from Roman. But when I glance at the screen, my heart does a weird clenchy thing. It's from Avery.

Avery

Goodnight, Victor. Thanks for today. Olivia can't stop talking about skating with you.

I stare at the message, warmth spreading through my chest. My fingers hover over the keyboard, unsure how to respond. It's been so long since I've felt this way, I've almost forgotten how to navigate it.

Victor

Goodnight, Chestnut.

Chapter Forty-Five

Avery

My phone buzzesfor the hundredth time as I frantically rummage through my closet. Clothes are strewn across my bedroom floor like confetti after a parade. I grab my phone, nearly dropping it in my haste.

Jessica

What are you bringing for the potluck?

I groan, running a hand through my messy hair. "Crap, I forgot about that," I mutter.

My thumbs fly across the screen.

Avery

Actually, change of plans. Won't be able to make it this year. Sorry!

I toss my phone on the bed and dive back into the closet. What does one pack for a week in Boston? WithVictor, no less. My stomach does a little flip at the thought.

The phone chimes again. And again. And again.

Emily

Everything okay?

Samantha

What do you mean you can't make it???

Jessica

Is Olivia sick?

I take a deep breath, steeling myself for their reactions.

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