Page 85 of Scandalous Little Obsession

Evie

It waseverything I thought it would be and so much more. At first, I couldn't figure out why. I mean, I felt different but still the same. It wasn't until I finally confessed to Sierra two weeks later that she helped me see the truth.

I love Leo.

It was too soon to confess it out loud, and way too soon to tell him how I felt, but that's what made it different.

I was in love with him.

He fought for me. Stood up for our relationship. Took the brunt of Max's disapproval—both his words and his fists—with a smile on his face. Because he wanted to be with me. Because he felt the same way.

"Not surprised I'd find you here today," Brady says as he slides into the seat next to me.

"Just because I got the guy doesn't mean I don't still cherish our weekly coffee dates."

"And where is he today?"

Classes ended yesterday. Winter break has officially started. It's been almost a month since Leo and I gave our relationship a title, and I couldn't be happier. Except he left to go home for the holidays this morning.

"Home."

"And when are you headed back?"

"Tonight. It's going to be a long four weeks apart."

"You know," he starts, shifting in his seat so he's facing me, his mug pressed to his lips in a vain attempt to hide his grin. "There are these things called cars. I'm sure you've heard of them. You put gas in the tank, and they take you anywhere. Even places that are hours away."

"Anyone ever tell you you're not funny?"

"All the time, but I'm also practical. And if there's something I want, someone I want to see, I make it happen."

His tone shifts slightly, his voice wavering, giving him away.

"Oh yeah. And who is it you want to see?"

"I was talking about your scenario." His reply is quick and stunted as he glances away from me. Trying not to make it obvious, Brady looks around the small coffee shop that's become our place over the last few months.

The windows are frosted, snow is falling outside, blanketing everything in a sheet of pristine white. The bell above the door chimes, announcing the arrival of a new customer accompanied by a stiff gust of bone-chilling winter wind.

When I glance in the direction of the front counter, I spot a familiar face. Her ash-blonde hair pokes out from under her soft pink hat, resting on her shoulder. She removes her matching gloves, tucking them in the pockets of her bright white coat as she places her order.

We're far enough off campus I'm surprised I recognize anyone. We chose this place to meet so we wouldn't run into anyone we knew. Yet, here she is, miles from where I'd expect to see her. And she's looking directly at me, a soft smile on her face as she waves.

"Looks like we have company," I announce to Brady, but when I look over my shoulder at him, he's already spotted her.

That's when I realize she's not looking at me, she's staring at him. And he's holding her gaze.

"Should we invite her to join us?" I ask, nudging him in the shoulder when he doesn't reply right away.

"Uh, sure. If you want."

"If I want?"

"I don't care if she sits with us. You'll have to make conversation with her, though. We don't have anything in common."

"And how do you know that?"

"I just do."

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