Well, Actually

by Mazey Eddings

I’ve nearly finished my coffee before I realize how unsettlingly quiet Rylie’s gone, and I glance at him. He’s stare into his mug, a mild blush kissing his cheeks. “What are you thinking about?” I squeeze the sensitive spot above his knee, making him giggle. He bats my hand away, working to keep his coffee from spilling. I put my mug down and settle against the pillows with an expectant look. He opens his mouth to say something, then slams it shut, shaking his head. “None of your business.” I use my toe to tickle his side this time, and he grabs my ankle, haphazardly dropping his coffee to the bedside table before pulling me to him, making me shriek, nails scrabbling against the sheets. He pins my thrashing body down, hovering over me with a sheepish grin. “Fine. You win.” “I always do.” He nips at my collarbone before continuing, “I was trying to think of a cute way to ask you to be my date to the fundraiser, you surly menace. You ruined the surprise. Are you happy?” “Kind of,” I croon before sliding my arms around his neck and leaning up to kiss him. “You’re an enemy of the state,” he says against my mouth. “What state?” “The state of my mental health.”