Page 24 of Breaking the Ice

Her posture softens, and she scoots closer. “I’m really sorry about that.”

“Don’t be. It wasn’t your fault. You saved my life, remember?”

Isabella scoffs. “You’ve gotta stop telling people that.”

“Nope. Not happening.”

“I am sorry that it interfered with your test. Dr. Knuth wouldn’t give you an extension?”

I shake my head. “No, but that’s okay. I want to earn this, fair and square.”

She shifts and puts her hand on my ankle. Ankles are not sexy, but somehow mine has become an erogenous zone and warmth spreads through my entire body. “Getting what you need is fair.”

“What do you mean?” Would she notice if I moved so her hand rose higher to my calf?

“Let’s say one of your students comes in on crutches. Is it fair to let them use the elevator?” She stares at me, her brown eyes piercing.

“Well, yeah.”

“Even if you don’t let everyone use the elevator at school?”

“I mean, not everyone needs the elevator, but that student does.”

“Exactly.” She smiles, and I want to see that look on her face all the time. “Fairness doesn’t mean everyone gets the same thing. It means everyone gets what they need. A level playing field. Getting an extension wouldn’t have been unfair. I’m sorry she didn’t give you one.”

“I’ve never heard it explained that way. Thanks.” I clear my throat, and my heart sinks when she removes her hand with a final pat on my foot.

“Alright, let’s talk about the ramifications of the Civil War.”

Discussing things with Isabella just makes sense. It doesn’t feel like studying or a chore. I could hang with her all night.

After an hour, I stand and stretch. “Can I get you a snack? A bathroom break? Anything?”

She uncurls herself from my bed, and damn, that’s a sight I’ll have on replay all week. “That sounds amazing.”

“Awesome. Bathroom’s right there.” I point to my en-suite, wincing internally at how cluttered it is. She’s probably already figured out I’m a mess, but there goes my opportunity to make a good impression. “And I’ll be back with some snacks.”

She nods her thanks, and I make a beeline for the kitchen. Hadley and Jonas are engrossed in their show, so I grab some chips and sodas and try to sneak back out.

“How’s your study date with your girlfriend?” Hadley’s singsong voice stops me in my tracks.

“Hey now, none of that.” I shake my head at her. “Who kept his mouth shut all summer while you two did a terrible job sneaking around?” Hadley gasps in mock outrage, and Jonas laughs. I juggle the snacks to one hand so I can wag a finger at them. “I think you owe me a free pass. She’s not my girlfriend, and she definitely doesn’t want to be.”

Jonas tilts his chin up. “Don’t be so sure of that, my man. Maybe she’s just shy.”

Huh. I’m definitely used to girls who throw themselves at me. I hadn’t thought of that. Do I have a chance here?

He continues speaking. “You know, you could just ask her out. Then you’d know for sure.”

“She’s Coach’s daughter.” I scoff. “You can imagine how well that would go over.”

Hadley shrugs. “Then just hang out. But don’t assume that she knows that you’re interested in more.”

“How do you know I’m interested?” I ask.

“Please.” She rolls her eyes. “You’ve learned her name and everything. There must be something more there.”

“Ouch.” I laugh it off, but there’s a kernel of truth in her words. I’ve been a player in the past, but the more I get to know Isabella, the less I want to mess around and the more I want to be serious about her. “I’m leaving, you’re mean.”