The Ex Files (Ocean View, #1)

by Morgan Elizabeth

I get about two-thirds of the way there when I hear the laugh, hear Maya say, “God, I’m so glad we did this. I so needed to get out.” “Yeah, me too. It’s been so long since I’ve done this.” What the fuck? I stop in my tracks, floored because what the fuck is he talking about? We just went out last week. We’ve been dating for three weeks. How the fuck has it been so long? Was I wrong? Was my initial fear and instinct correct? Rage flows through me, and I stop at the table, hands on my hips, fire in my eyes as I shoot Luke with the blaze. His head travels up my body, shock taking over his face laced with something I can’t quite pinpoint. Fear? Relief? Joy? The thoughts flit past his face so quickly I can’t stop and decode any. “Cassie, what are you—” “I cannot believe this,” I say, my voice stern, hands on my hips, and Jesus, I feel like a jilted girlfriend. How many rom-com stereotypes can I become in one day? “What are you—” “Three days ago, you’re in my office, begging me to give you a chance, telling me we’re meant to fucking be, bending me over.” My words stop as I realize we have an audience. Luke’s lips tip up, a dimple showing, and I have to fight not to lose my train of thought. “Whatever. And now you’re here, on a date, telling her you haven’t done this in so long? Are you kidding me?!” I turn my face to Maya. “I’m sorry I set this up. I clearly messed up. He’s obviously a liar and a player.” Luke laughs now, as if I’m telling some grand story, and even Maya’s lips...