Total pages in book: 92
Estimated words: 90257 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 451(@200wpm)___ 361(@250wpm)___ 301(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 90257 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 451(@200wpm)___ 361(@250wpm)___ 301(@300wpm)
With a tilt of his head, he licks his chapped lips. “There isn’t any scientific evidence to back up your assertion that chemical attraction even exists. Couples are successful because they have a rock-solid foundation regarding shared interests, morals, and values.”
“Maybe attraction can’t be qualitatively measured, but it exists.” How else can you explain the physical reaction I have to Ryder McAdams? It’s all chemical attraction. We have absolutely nothing in common. Hell, we don’t even like each other and yet…
Fireworks explode when we’re together.
His expression turns quizzical. “But if it can’t be proven, how can you be so sure?”
“Because I’ve felt it, and I’ve seen relationships with chemistry that have stood the test of time. I believe in it, and that’s what I want for myself.”
Just not with Ryder.
Someone more like Aaron who I have shared interests with.
“Fair enough.” His expression turns thoughtful as we continue walking. “I can’t say that I’m not disappointed by this turn of events. You’re missing out on something great.”
I force a smile. “You’re right, and I’m the one who’ll have to live with that decision.”
With nothing more to say on the subject, Aaron hitches his thumb over his shoulder. “I should probably get to the library. I need to study. Any chance you want to join me?”
“Maybe next time. I have an appointment with my advisor in ten minutes and then I’m off to my lab.”
He nods before giving me a wave and disappearing.
Tension leaks from my muscles as we part ways.
As friends.
The rest of the day turns out to be a whirlwind. By the time I walk through the door of our apartment at seven o’clock that evening, my ass is dragging, and my brain is fried. I’m looking forward to hitting the sheets and sacking out.
“Hello?” I call out when I don’t immediately spot Carina curled up on the couch in the living room, wrapped up in a book. Several lights are on, and music is playing, so I know she’s around.
I peek my head inside her room. It’s an explosion of clothes, books, colorful pillows, and makeup. Dance posters and photographs of friends and family decorate almost the entire wall space. Carina’s room is a direct reflection of her personality—bursting at the seams with vibrant energy.
Our gazes meet in the full-length mirror before she spins around. “I’m so glad you’re here!”
“Oh?” Her overly enthusiastic greeting has alarm bells going off in my head.
With narrowed eyes, I take her in. Her leggings and comfy sweatshirt, which is what she’d usually wear if we’re hunkering down for the night, has been replaced by a creamy low-cut sweater, short tan corduroy skirt, and rich, nutbrown suede boots. Her blonde hair has been left all long and loose to float around her shoulders and her make up is on point with a smoky eye.
“You did all this for me?” I wave a hand. “You shouldn’t have.”
Ignoring the comment, she says instead, “We’re going out.” Her gaze slides down my length before bouncing back to my face. “And you need to change into something a little more party appropriate.”
The thought of rallying just to hit some off-campus rager makes me even more tired than I already am.
“Hard pass. I was going to spend an hour reading and then turn in early.” I point a finger in her direction. “But you have fun tonight. Be sure to tell me all about it mañana.”
When I attempt to back out of her room, she springs forward with a surprising amount of speed. Kind of like a snake intent on striking. Her fingers lock around my wrist before she drags me further inside her space. “No way! You’re coming with.”
When I open my mouth, she says in a rush, “Before you argue, just know that I’m pulling the best friends card tonight.”
My eyes widen. “Seriously?”
“Yup.” She pops the P at the end of the word. “I’m doing it for your own good. You’ve been working way too hard and need to loosen up and have a little fun.” She tilts her head and studies me. “You do remember what fun is, right?”
I take a moment to search my memory. “Um, I think so.”
She grins. “Excellent.”
I point to my outfit. “Can I wear this?”
The way her eyes widen is answer enough, but just in case I’m slow on the uptake she snaps, “Absolutely not.”
I cross my arms over my chest. “I don’t have anything more party appropriate than this.”
She presses her lips together. “That’s so sad. I’m glad we’re in agreement that your wardrobe lacks the necessary style we’re looking for this evening. FYI—I took the liberty of rummaging through your closet and drawers. Nice vibe, by the way. Super cute. Love the pink and black aesthetic. And it’s so small, you could literally pop it right into your purse.”
I groan as heat scorches my cheeks. “You’re a horrible person for bringing that up.”