Page 59 of Time To Learn

“Don’t for one fucking second believe that that’s what I see when I look at you, Laura,” he spitsout.

His anger fuels my own, but I try to tamp down my temper.

“Really?” I scoff.

“Yes, really. You’re so much more than the scars on yourbody.”

I narrow my eyes athim.

“And you know all this about me because you know me so well, do you?” I goad, my voice dripping with sarcasm.

“It doesn’t take a lifetime getting to know someone,” he growls. “Sometimes, it only takes a moment. I may not know all your secrets, but that doesn’t mean I don’t see your beauty.”

The angry retort on my lips vaporises into the air, and I feel like I’ve been hit in my stomach—winded, overwhelmed…surprised.

Who is this bloke? How can he be so wise when he’s so young?

“Now,” he sighs, running a hand through his hair, “are you going to stop talking nonsense?”

“I’m not done,” I mutter.

He blinks atme.

“Now what?” The shuttered look in his eyes makes me want to hug him, but that’s too weird.

Weird and creepy.

“Are we still going to try to be friends?” I askhim.

He takes a step away, easing the pressure on my chest. I feel saddened by his distance, but, at the same time, I know it’s necessary, for both our sakes.

“Do you want to?” he asks, his voice quiet.

I hesitate, but then shrug. I could always use another friend, couldn’tI?

“Of course.”

He nods, seemingly lost in thought for a moment.

“Okay, then.”

“Do you think you know how to be friends with me?” I blurtout.

The frown returns on his forehead, and I don’t blame him. I sound utterly bonkers.

“I’m not sure I followyou?”

I wet my lips, trying to make sense of my befuddled thoughts to both myself andhim.

“I’m…I’m a very guarded woman, Kristian.” I cross my arms, feeling a chill in my bones. “I don’t talk about my past, and I have my reasons.”

“Well, I don’t talk about mine, so I think we’re on common ground there.”

I shrug.

“I don’t talk about the future, either.”

His eyes shoot up, and I give him a small smile.