Page 42 of Fighting Spirit

“Shhh.” He laughs some more.

“Stop.”

“I’m not doing anything!”

“You’re being an ass.”

“I literally said nothing. You’re the one ruining quiet time.”

“Don’t call it quiet time.” I can’t keep the harsh edge out of my voice.

“Sorry,” he responds. I know he didn’t mean anything, but my hackles are up.

“I’m not a child.”

“Did someone call you that?”

What? How would he- “No!” I squeak out.

“You’re a shitty liar, Ruth.”

“Nobody called me a child.”

“Was it that guy?”

I know immediately who he means. Every time I’ve mentioned Marshall’s name, Rowan goes all quiet, like he’s trying to hold back. I know Marshall didn’t make a great first impression, but I wish Rowan would at least give him a chance.

I realize I’ve been quiet too long when Rowan speaks again. “It was, wasn’t it?”

“He didn’t mean it in a bad way,” I mumble.

“But it hurt you.”

“It’s fine,” I protest, trying to brush it off. “I’m just being oversensitive.”

“You’re notover-anything. He’s an ass. I don’t know why you hang out with him.”

“He’s my friend.” How the hell did we end up fighting about this? “You don’t know him. You barely know me. You’ve got no place to comment on who I have in my life.”

My heart slams against my ribs as I wait for him to say something. Was I too harsh?

“I wish I did know you.” Rowan’s voice is soft.

My heartbeat somehow gets more intense, like the wings of a moth pounding against a pane of glass.

“You do?” I don’t think anybody’s ever said that to me before.

“So much.”

I don’t let myself second-guess the answer. “I want to know you too.”

He shuffles around, like he’s getting comfortable.

“Can you start by explaining what the deal is with you two? Just so I understand better. Is he your ex?”

“It’s a bit complicated.” I wince.

“Complicated how?”

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