Page 66 of Detour

“Dude, you know I’m always up for cuddles.” Beckett stands, winking as he leans his elbows against the banister.

As I cross the street over to school grounds, I can tell the moment they catch sight of the back of my shirt. I’m wearing a black racerback tank with a flowery skull on the front and my hot pink bra showing through the completely see-through lacy back. I chose my shredded white shorts to add more attitude to the already bold outfit. Today being the last day of school, I decided I’d go out with a bang. Judging from the cusses sounding from behind me, it has the desired effect. I also filled all six of my ear piercings with small hoops instead of my usual studs, giving a bit more edge, too.

I peek over my shoulder with a mischievous smirk. The look from Coty, who’s now standing with the banister in a death grip, is full of rage, heat, and, ultimately, powerlessness. I wave innocently, then continue on my way.

Only a few more steps in and I’m suddenly picked up from behind by someone who smells a lot like my favorite neighbor. Before I can react, Coty puts me back on my feet, arms wrapped around my middle.

“Are you trying to kill me with this outfit?” he says into my neck, giving me goose bumps.

“You’ve seen me in a bikini but this is a problem?”

“It’s a problem because you’re going to be surrounded by a bunch of horny teenagers.”

“You’re one to talk.”

“Damn right.”

I scoff, trying to shrug him off but he doesn’t budge.

Spinning in his arms, I catch him off guard as we’re brought face-to-face. My hands come up to rest on his cheeks.

“Don’t you know? I’m just a horny teenager myself.” I lick his lip before kissing him hard.

Close but not close enough, he presses his groin in line with mine and we both groan from the contact.

“Skip. Spend the day with me. I’ll call in sick.”

I push against his shoulders.

“Not happening.”

I’ve never skipped in my life and I’m not going to on the last day of my high school career.

Plus, I’ve always reveled in getting perfect attendance and good grades. I never did it to prove myself to her, she doesn’t deserve that kind of credit, I’ve always done it for myself. I take great pride in being the opposite of what she’s always claimed I am—a fatherless fuck-up of a mistake. I know plenty of fuck-ups that have fathers though, proving her foolish theory wrong yet again.

Coty lets me push his body away this time.

“Do you work today?”

“No, I kept my day open for the parties.”

Coty chuckles. “Sounds about right, party animal.”

I roll my eyes.

He brings his face in close again, his hand smoothing over the lace to find his go-to spot.

“See you later,” he says slyly then steals a quick kiss.

Releasing me, he walks back to the complex with the sexiest swagger I’ve ever seen. I stand here admiring the muscles in his back as they tighten from his hands in his pockets. His triceps flex, showing how strong he is. His walk is slow and relaxed, exactly how my body feels after he showers me with affection.

The fog threatening to overtake me, I spin around and walk a little faster to first period.

* * *

“Will I see you at any festivities this weekend?”

“Probably not.” I shrug.