Page 52 of Defend Me

His lips parted, then he bit one. “You’re feral.”

“This is why tipsy Tilian shouldn’t come out to play.”

“Shut up. I love it.”

I got startled when I realized Michele and Sara had come closer. Brooks turned and smiled at them.

“Thanks for playing with us. It was fun. Can I buy you two a drink as a show of good sportsmanship?”

“That’s so sweet,” Michele replied. “We could go somewhere else, though. Just hang out.”

There it was.

I looked at Brooks carefully. Since I was getting used to being around him, I could see that he was going over something in his mind. Was he going to take them up on it? I’d probably just go home.

“We’re okay,” he said. “Probably gonna head out soon anyway.”

“Oh, okay. Maybe we can get your numbers?”

Sara smiled shyly at me, which was a little shocking.

“I’m gay.” Well, bluntness was one way to do things.

“Shit, I didn’t realize.” Michele looked at Brooks. “Are you…”

“Yes, no, all of the above. I’m like water- fluid as fuck.”

Her eyebrows shot up. “Um, so, you’ve been with guys?”

His head cocked. Instead of answering, he picked up his beer and drained the rest of it.

“Actually, nevermind,” she said quickly. “You’re cool, but I’m not into that. Thanks for the games.”

She took Sara’s hand and pulled her away.

I shook my head. “Gross. I’m glad we didn’t let them win.”

“Why would we let them win?”

I threw my hands in the air. “I don’t know how male to female flirting works.”

He laughed. “Flirting? I wasn’t doing that.”

“You always are.”

“Mm. Well, for your information, it didn’t even cross my mind. I’m here with you.”

“You tried to pair me up,” I pointed out.

“I don’t want you to be lonely.”

“I’m not lonely. I’m here with you.”

The smile that appeared on his face was goofier than usual. I took his hand and glanced over my shoulder at the girls, who were getting drinks at the bar.

“Sorry they were dicks to you.”

“One, don’t say sorry. Two, I’m not bothered. Some women don’t like that I’ve slept with men and some men don’t like that I’ve slept with women.”

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