Page 23 of Wallflower

"Jesus," he breathed. "Who do you think I am, Vi? If I'd known they were doing that, I would've put a stop to it long ago. Don't lump me in with Penn and his merry band of douchebags."

He had a point. "I never thought you were quite that bad," I said.

Dare grunted.

"And thanks, but I had it covered."

"Yeah." He scoffed quietly. The sarcasm was thick in his voice. "It sure looked like it."

I crossed my arms. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means you needed backup, flower. Whether you admit it or not."

"I didn't need your help," I said through gritted teeth. "And bringing my dad into it? So unnecessary."

"I think Coach would disagree," Dare said.

Oh, he had some nerve. "As if you know him so well?"

He stared me down. "I know he cares about you a lot. Coach and I have an understanding."

"But apparently you don't understand me, Frost. I've never used my father as a shield and never would. I'm half-Slytherin, half-Gryffindor and all badass romance addict. I've got years of caring for neglected animals under my belt. I don't need anyone fighting my battles for me."

Dare nodded, but his eyes were intent on my face. "Keep telling yourself that."

Gah, this guy! I couldn't believe the audacity.

"Actually, you know what? This stops now." I wanted to make sure he knew I was serious, so I took a step closer and lowered my voice. "No more sitting together, no more talking except when absolutely necessary. Definitely no hanging out—whatever that means. Besides the driving, we go back to how it was. I ignore you, and you ignore me. Simple."

Dare shook his head slowly. "I don't think I can do that," he said.

My Spidey senses were tingling.

"Oh? Why not?" I asked, feeling like I wasthis closeto the truth, but he stayed silent. Maybe if I pushed him a little farther. "Just stop pretending to be a white knight, Frost. The suit doesn't fit, and again, I don't want or need your help. I'm good."

"You're good?" Dare repeated.

"Totally," I said.

"So good I found you sitting by yourself in a corner."

I lifted my chin. "I like being alone. Prefer it actually."

"Sure, you do," Dare said.

"Not everyone needs a harem of girls and guys, kissing up to them, waiting at their beck and call."

His jaw clenched.

"Some people make do on their own."

I waited a beat then delivered the final shove.

"So you can stop acting like the nice guy we both know youaren't. I'm fine."

Dare had obviously had enough.

"If you're so fine," he said, "then why'd your dad seek me out and basically recruit me to be your friend?"

---