Page 63 of Crazy in Love

Except for her recent run-in with Jesse the book burglar, Faith had no experience with fighting. But even she could surmise this kid was winding up to throw a punch.

Nick caught the kid’s fist effortlessly and, in a ninja-like move, used it to twist his arm around behind his back, yanking upward so the bully had no choice but to submit.

“I’m sorry,” Nick said. “What were you saying?”

The teen winced but stayed silent. Realizing he’d met his match, the fight drained out of him. Nick might be a little gimpy, but his height, broad shoulders, and imposing demeanor overshadowed that frivolous detail.

Hope joined Faith, and together, they helped Rex to his feet.

Principal Booker stepped into the circle. “I’ve called the police. Someone will be here soon. Y’all get back.” He shooed the crowd of kids, who were already dispersing.

“Oh, Rex,” Hope said. “I’m so sorry.”

“What happened?” Faith asked.

“I’m an idiot,” Hope said. “I opened my stupid big mouth and got into it with Godzilla over there. Rex jumped in to protect my honor.”

“He said some terrible, untrue things about you,” Rex said, blood dripping down his chin.

“You’re sweet.” Hope shook her head. “And crazy. Are you okay?” She gingerly touched Rex’s face, and he smiled. Hope returned the smile and kissed his cheek.

Faith backed away to give them a minute. A deputy arrived and was talking to Nick and the teen. After a second, Nick clasped hands with the policeman and returned to her side.

“That was pretty badass, Walker,” Faith said. “Good thing you were here. I don’t see anyone else that could’ve stopped the fight like that.”

He shrugged and pointed to Hope. Someone had arrived with a first aid kit, and Hope held an ice pack to Rex’s face.

“Is the punching bag Hope’s date? Not too bright, fighting a guy twice his size.”

“He was standing up for Hope’s good name,” Faith said. “Misguided, but gallant.”

Nick rolled his eyes. “Kids.”

The music started back up, and kids returned to the dance floor. “I noticed you ditched the cane. Your leg okay to dance?” Faith asked.

“How ’bout we go make out under the bleachers instead?”

She laughed but followed him. They snuck around to the side of the bleachers and dipped underneath. “Think anyone will miss us?”

“Only if another fight breaks out.” He pulled her into his arms and swayed slowly to the fast-paced music. He was big andwarm, and dancing with him felt so comfortable, so right. She laid her head on his shoulder.

“Maybe this isn’t the best time for this,” he said. “But I wanted to ask if you would drive me back to Boston. I was thinking we could go on Sunday, and you could spend the night before heading home.”

Was this his way of suggesting they try a long-distance relationship? Or did he just need a ride, and why not get some farewell nooky as a bonus? Whatever his thoughts, it was a mood killer for sure. But it was also reality. A reality she’d known was coming.

“Yeah, I can do that.”

“Okay. I thought it’d be nice to have some time alone, without a town of nosy Nellies breathing down our necks, before we have to say goodbye.”

Well, that answered that. It would be goodbye then. She could either pout and be upset that they didn’t have much time left, or she could squeeze the juice out of every second theydidhave.

She tightened her grip around his neck and put her lips to his.

“Hey,” a voice came from off to their right. “What are you two doing under here?”

“Busted,” he mumbled.

Faith giggled. “Ah, yes. Just like high school.”

---