Page 96 of Catch
You’re exhausted and your mind’s playing tricks on you.
I push away my unease and get back to work. When I notice Ethan finally making his way over, I take a deep breath and put on my game day smile to greet him.
“Hey.”
“What’s up?” Ethan asks as he takes hold of my shoulders.
“Nothing. Everything’s fine.”
“You look upset. What’s going on?”
“Nothing.” I shrug off his hands. “I’m tired. That’s all. It’s been a hell of a long day.”
Tired doesn’t even begin to describe what I’m feeling. It’s hit me like a truck that I’m falling for someone who doesn’t believe in love.
Oh God, Ethan, what have we done?
A warning echoes in my mind over and over as Istare into his eyes. I hope my poker face is good enough to fool him.
“I’m exhausted too, but I think it turned out great.” He smiles at me. “There’s a lot of positive feedback.”
“A job well done, Walker.”
“I couldn’t have done it without you, Hawthorne.”
“Sure you could’ve. You’re a natural.”
“You kept me on track. But now I’m wondering if I picked the wrong major. Economics might get me a job, but sports and people are where my true passion lies.”
“Didn’t Axel switch to sports management?” I ask. “Maybe you could do a double major?”
“I’m gonna give it some thought,” he murmurs and steps in closer. “Come back home with me?”
I glance around but no one’s near enough to hear our conversation. Our friends know what’s up between us, but not the entire campus. Although, if Ethan keeps looking at me that way, it won’t be a secret much longer.
“Tonight?”
He nods.
“We don’t have any scheduled activities until tomorrow afternoon.”
“I don’t know?—”
“I can’t sleep without you.”
Why did he have to say that? Not that he’s the only one, but still. How am I supposed to guard my heart now?
“I meant what I said, Ethan. I’m worn out.”
“I didn’t mean go back and have sex.”
“You want to use my body as your pillow?” I quip, trying to ease the tightness in my chest.
“I will neither confirm nor deny.”
He slides his arms around my waist and leans forward, like he’s about to kiss me. I put a hand on his chest and push him away.
“Not here.”
