Page 51 of Flock
“Why do I have to prove anything to him?”
“You don’t, but if you’re going to be taking up space that he’s sharing, you’ll have to figure it out.”
“Figure what out exactly?”
“How to get along.”
“With him?” I scoff. “Impossible.”
“Not impossible. Improbable.”
“Sean, cut the shit. Dominic is not going to cut me any slack, okay? That’s clear.”
“Then step up.”
“And what? Kick his ass?”
“Couldn’t hurt.” His playful tone has my hackles rising.
“This is funny to you?”
“Hysterical. Got to give you props, though, you were holding your own for a minute back there.”
“So, this is a game.”
“No, it’s a test of wills, and I really do hope you win.”
“You did not just say that to me.”
“I did. And I’ll say it again. You can do this. I know you can. Don’t let him scare you away.”
“That’s it?”
He grips his biceps. “That’s it.”
“Another decision.”
He taps his nose.
“You said you wouldn’t turn into a dick. What do you call this?”
He sighs. “Then I guess I’m sorry to disappoint, but I promise I can do much, much worse.”
I can physically feel my heart starting to retreat. I can walk away now, and something inside me thinks it would be wise. But this behavior contradicts the Sean I’ve gotten to know. I’m utterly torn as I stare at him.
“You guys are on some alternate planet.”
“It’s fun here,” he says softly, “but it’s a much better planet with you on it.”
I shake my head. “I have no idea what to think about you.”
“I’m in the same position with you. Makes things interesting, doesn’t it?”
I gape at him. “I thought we ...”
“You thought what?”
My heart sinks. “God, I’m an idiot. This was a bad idea.” I move to grab my purse and he stops me, letting out a harsh breath.
