Page 44 of Taken By the Fae

“I did,” she says. “And before you ask, yes, he knew I wasn’t, but we decided it didn’t matter.”

“I think it matters more than you want to admit.” Everything I’ve heard about the unseelie fae urges me to be wary of them. Especially when my best friend is involved.

She scowls, pulling her hands from mine. “How the hell would you know?” My eyes widen at her sudden sharp tone. That went from zero to one hundredwaytoo fast.

I stand there for several beats. Allison never yells at me. I don’t think I’ve ever heard her raise her voice to anyone. It’s clear she’s not about to apologize for it. “You’re right. I don’t know everything about the fae, but I will do whatever it takes to make sure you’re okay. Even if you’re pissed now, you’d do the same for me.”

She blinks a few times, her expression softening as she nods. “I’m sorry for snapping. I love you for caring so much, I do, but I need to figure this out myself. I’ll be careful, I promise. Please don’t be mad at me.”

I don’t want to be angry, but it takes some effort to push those feelings down. Maybe I’ll feel better once I’ve met the guy. I decide to reserve my judgment until then. I trust Allison. I just hope she knows what she’s doing.

“Okay,” I finally say. “I need a coffee. Want to join?”

Her shoulders easing, she smiles. “I have class, but I’ll catch you later?”

I nod, leaning over to hug her. “Sure.”

* * *

I’m standing at the self-serve station in the cafeteria, putting a lid on my cup, when Oliver walks over with his own. By the looks of his eyes and messy hair, it isn’t his first. You can always tell when it’s midterms around here. Hell, I’m surprised he’s wearing jeans and a T-shirt instead of pajamas. I would be if I hadn’t been at the hotel this morning.

Oliver blows out a breath. “It’s just after noon, and I’m ready for bed.”

“Do you have time for a break?”

His eyes widen. “Break? You’ll have to explain that foreign concept to me.”

I laugh. “We can sit and talk about something that has nothing to do with study cards or assignments. I’ve heard it’s enjoyable.”

“Huh. Let’s give it a shot.”

We pay for our coffee and find a quiet spot in the corner of the lounge attached to the cafeteria.

“Listen, there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you for a while now.” He fidgets with his hands in his lap. “Did Allison talk to you?”

I smile. “She did. I understand why you guys kept it from me. I’m not mad.” I’m a bit upset with the whole situation, but that’s my issue to deal with.

He nods. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I’ve felt so terrible about it, especially for Allison, and she’s been so amazing about all of it.”

“Don’t apologize, Oliver. You shouldn’t have to say anything. In my mind, you dating guys is no different from you dating girls.”

His face relaxes. “Thanks for being cool.”

“Of course.” I give his shoulder a gentle punch. “Are you seeing anyone?”

He scratches his head. “Not officially. I’m not broadcasting my relationship status, but I’m sort of hanging out with someone.”

I press my lips together, hesitating before I ask, “Do your parents know?”

He offers a weak smile, and my chest tightens.

I reach across the table and squeeze his hand. “I’m sorry.”

He drags a hand down his face before taking a sip of his coffee. “It’s okay. I’m hoping to move into an apartment around here after graduation so I don’t have to go home. I figure one day I’ll just bring my boyfriend to meet them.”

Oliver’s parents are picture perfect conservatives, so I can imagine how well that surprise would go over.

“We can get a place together,” I say, only half joking. I’ll most likely stick around after graduation, and having a roommate would make rent easier to pay.

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