Page 37 of Defend Me

Brooks

Where I’m about to start becoming attached

I closed the door almost all the way, not wanting to shut us in entirely. Dean shamelessly wandered around my room, taking everything in from top to bottom.

One of the walls was made up of windows like in the main part of the apartment. There was another door that led into my bathroom, as well as my walk-in closet. My bed was in the center of the wall on the right side of the room with a nightstand on either side of it. The aesthetic matched the rest of the place, with a black bed frame and sheets.

Tired of waiting, I flicked him in the chest to draw his attention back to me. “Unless you’re here to make use of that bed, tell me what you wanted to talk about.”

His nose twitched like he wanted to scowl at me again or something. “I’ve been thinking a lot the past few days.”

“That’s cool.”

Rocking back on his heels, he glanced around the room. “So, you want to be friends, right?”

Stepping backward, I leaned against the wall and crossed my arms. “I’ve said as much.”

“Okay. Does it still apply?”

I hummed thoughtfully. “I’m not sure. You’ve run me in circles, hurt my feelings.”

“Dude.”

My stoic expression cracked, revealing my smile. “Yeah, I’m down to be friends. Is that what you’re trying to say here?”

It seemed like he really wanted to say no, which didn’t really make sense considering he brought this up.

“Spit it out,” I said. “It’s rude to leave Tilian alone out there, plus I know that he has a tendency to wander when he’s bored.”

“Damn,” he said, running his hand through his hair. “I still want to punch you in the face sometimes, but I’m trying to move past it all. It’s not exactly easy.”

“I’m sure it’s not. Let me ask you something. If you aren’t past it, why do you have any interest in being my friend?”

“Tilian.”

My lips thinned. I guess I was doing the same thing, but I liked it better when it was only me.

“He’s my friend,” he went on. “We don’t hang out all the time, but I’m busy with football during the season and he likes his alone time. I care about him, though, sort of like a brother, just not the ride or die kind. You guys are getting close and I don’t want things to be strained on any side. Plus, I do sometimes have a good time with you.”

“Such high praise. I feel cherished.”

“And this reminds me of what I don’t like about you.”

“Chill out,” I said with a sigh. “We’re on the tentative friend train and I refuse to be verbally abused in my own home.”

He snorted a laugh. “You’re an idiot. Since I might hang out with you and Tilian sometimes, any house rules I should know about?”

“Just the normal things, I guess.”

“So, don’t leave messes or eat all the food.”

“Leave messes. Actually, please do.”

His eyes widened a little. “You… Oh, you’re joking.” I shook my head. “I don’t get it. Why would you want messes?”

I shrugged and strode to the door. “Maybe it’ll be less dead and… I can’t do it.”

When I got to the living room, I flopped onto the couch beside Tilian, who was lying down, staring up at the ceiling. I wedged myself between him and the back cushions. It was impossible for us both to lay flat, so I turned onto my side and propped my elbow on the couch with my chin in my hand.

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