Page 24 of Stay Toxic

I snort. “Oh, he’s still a dick, mostly. He’s stopped being super rude, though. And I guess, it’s easy to speak to a stranger about some stuff. Which is probably why the faculty set up the program in the first place.”

Lawrence nods. “Yeah, the guy I’m paired with has been pretty useful. He invited me to check out the Web this weekend. I think I’ll rush for it at the end of the year, although I have to have crazy grades to make it.”

“The Web?” As usual, I’m the only one who doesn’t seem to get it.

“One of the houses,” Ari explains with a vague wave towards the window, where we can spot the row of large, luxurious houses through their rows of large trees. “They’re the tech geeks. I think you’d fit right in, Lawr.”

“And how’s Timothy?” I ask Ari.

She grins. “Thecutest. He’s in performing arts—wants to be an actor. I wonder if I could put him in touch with your friend Tanya? You know, for advice about breaking into that type of career.”

“Sure. I’ll send you her number.”

I’m checking my phone again when the door opens. I know it’s him before I lift my head to look, some sixth sense making me tense, and my heart skip a beat.

Fuck, I have to do something about this crush. Maybe I should date someone.

Yeah, right. And if Mother hears about it, what then?

I might have an understanding of sorts with Robert, but that doesn’t mean that Senator Cole would be okay with it if she knew.

Robert and I agreed we can have our own lives while I’m here, but openly dating is a risk I can’t afford. Even if it saves me from this unbearable fascination with someone else’s guy.

Ever the attentive boyfriend, Sebastian pops by every day. At least Ari and he aren’t into public display of affection, so I don’t die of jealousy, but they’re so cute, smiling at each other, winking, and such. I know they’re also compatiblethat way. Really, they’re perfect. He’s so tall, and she tucks right into his side. Barf. Most days, I’m surprised I haven’t turned green, Wicked style.

“I heard there was pizza,” Sebastian says.

I do my best to keep my attention on my phone, away from him.

“You heard nothing of the sort, sir,” Ben protests, snatching the last box and cradling it protectively.

Sebastian lifts a six-pack. “I have beer.”

Ari’s brother hums. “Maybe we can make a deal.”

Smiling, I give Ari Tanya’s number, and do my best to ignore the looming presence approaching us.

I’m deliberately not looking up, so I’m surprised when a bottle approaches my face.

It’s a half bottle of wine—rosé, by the looks of it. I lift my head questioningly toward Sebastian.

He just shrugs. “I figured you weren’t a lager kinda gal.”

He’s right, but I don’t know how he could have guessed. I didn’t say anything last time, swallowing down the awful drink without protest.

He must have paid attention to me.Which is…a dangerous thought. Maye he’s just a naturally attentive person, noticing people. That’s it. It has nothing to do with me at all.

“Thank you. That was thoughtful. I love rosé.”

“A little bird told me.” He grins.

Oh. He asked Tanya. I shouldn’t be surprised; he does own the theater. He might have seen my best friend a few times. But why would he enquire about my drink preferences?

It must have come up in the conversation, I guess. I’ll have to check with her.

“What do you like to drink?” I find myself asking.

It’s the second time he’s offered me drinks in my own room; maybe I should make sure to stock up his poison of choice as a thank you.