Page 171 of I Shouldn't Love This Way

“It’s hot, right?” She nodded to the beat.

Evan grinned as she wrapped an arm over his shoulder and said, “You got any moves?”

“Why don’t you show me what you got first, love?” He held her hips, smiling as she danced on him.

It was like watching a scene straight out ofStep UporTake The Leadright there in my kitchen. Jade sang along with Beyoncé, finishing the last verse ina cappella.

“Wow!” Evan clapped. “I’m impressed!”

“Does this mean you’ll come tomorrow night?”

“You can count on it.”

She hugged him in excitement and looked at me with hearts in her eyes. “We should go club hopping tonight!”

“I can’t. I have a paper to finish.”

I reigned high as the queen of procrastination.

“You’re totally taking ‘academics’ way too seriously, Aria,” said Jade. “College life also includes partying and getting drunk on Friday nights!”

I would have gladly gone if Noah was here, but he wasn’t.

“What about you, Evan? Wanna come?”

“I’ve got a photo shoot early in the morning.”

“Ugh!” Jade groaned. “You guys suck.”

“Why don’t you ask Ally to join you?” I suggested.

“She’s on a date with her man.”

The coffee machine switched off before I poured a fresh cup for Evan.

“Thanks, love.” He smiled.

“You’re welcome.”

Our eyes lingered on each other for far too long; I almost felt self-conscious.

“Well,” Jade sighed. “I guess I’ll draw a bath and do some reading tonight.”

“Sounds relaxing,” Evan replied.

“Feel free to ask me out on that date any time.” She winked, walking out of the kitchen when he said, “Are you free Wednesday evening?”

Jade paused and smiled at him. “For you, I am.” She smiled.

“I’ll pick you up at six.”

“Don’t be late.”

I was certain she would pump me for information about his likes and dislikes once he’d leave, but I was glad she and Ally adored him.

Hopefully, Noah will come around.

“I was right: you guys have a thing.”

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