AllFreeNovel
Share Us
"Is that a problem, is that a problem," he mutters to himself, shooting to his feet, standing to his impressive height. "Yes, that's a problem. Have you not thought it through?"
"What???" I blink. "Of course, I have," I scoff. "Would you like me to list off all the reasons?"
"Yeah, yeah." He steps toward me, nostrils flaring. "Go right ahead."
What the hell's gotten into him? Who does he think he is? Like I need his approval to attend some university?
"Fine," I snap, and it only darkens those shadows. "Where do I start—hmmm..." I tap my chin. "Oh, let's start there. Reason number one, which I already stated. Columbia has a great Game Design program..."
His lips flatten as he creeps closer.
"... Reason number two. It's only a short drive away, which is quite ironic, isn't it? With you saying I'm the one leaving and all, while you and Jeremy are off in New Jersey..."
Tilting his head, he steps again, this time closing a considerable distance, causing my stomach to somersault.
"... N-number three..." I avoid his intense gaze, soldiering on. "They offer a great financial package..."
His presence crowds me against the door, my heart racing at a million miles per minute, muted by the music on the other side. If my brother knew I was in here, alone with Hayden, in nothing but a bathrobe... he'd raise hell.
"There are also many research opportunitie—"
"How about the part where I won't be able to look after you there?"
My lips part on a gasp...
"Huh? Have you thought of that?" Minty breath clouds my brain, mixed with alcohol and subtle traces of tobacco, slurring his words even more. "You're just gonna go off and—who knows?—join a sorority, party on Greek Row in some tight dress, where any arrogant prick can get his hands on you..."
Again, nothing comes out, rendering me speechless, stunned beyond measure. Because... if I'm not trapped in dreamland right now... I'd say he sounds...
Jealous.
And I mean... really jealous.
"Y-you're just drunk," I manage to say.
"Very perceptive of you, Jules." He chuckles a warm sound, racing a shudder through me and dousing my senses with another wave of alcohol. "You're right. I am drunk. Not hammered, but just enough to call off my flight, stumble my way in here, and say things I really shouldn't."
Hope sparks within me, but I quickly squash it. "Sure, but you don't mean anything you're saying."
"No? Drunk words are sober thoughts."
My brow arches quizzically.
"You see? This is why you need me—for guidance."
"You're not making any sense."
He sighs. "Truth is, Jules. I already knew the answer before coming. That you'll go where you want to go, do as you want to do. It's in your nature. Which means... I'm only here for selfish reasons."
I freeze as he pinches one of my damp locks, trailing a touch down its length. When he reaches the end, I stammer, "What're you trying to say?"
He leans in closer, invading my space, pressing my backside more firmly against the door. Resting his forearm somewhere above my head, he stares down from his tall height, right in my eyes, straight through to my soul. For a moment, I think he's not going to say anything, that he's finally sobered up and realized his mistake, until he murmurs...
"That you're mine, no matter where you go."
Mine...
A single word from his lips, and I'm floating on air.
