Page 108 of Break Points and Face Offs

I clear my throat, looking Jamie in the eye. “I’m not going to work for Father this summer.”

“Why not?” he frowns.

“I don’t want to. And I didn’t earn it.”

He shakes his head. I’m not sure if he doesn’t understand or if he’s worried about the fall-out.

“I’m sorry if this affects you, I promise I won’t let Father take it out on you, I⁠—”

“Priestley, it’s okay. I don’t want my brother to be miserable because of me.”

I’m about to test the waters for a hug when he steps closer and puts his arms around me.

“Baby brother,” I murmur into his hair.

“You’re so weird now,” he says. “I don’t hate it, I just have to get used to it.”

I snort. “Okay, good to know.”

By the time we head back into the party, Ben is gone.

“I didn’t get to wish him a happy birthday.”

“I think his boyfriend wanted to wish him a happy birthday in private—if you know what I mean.” Archer winks.

“Yes, I get the gist, thank you.”

I spot Will chatting to Travis where we left them.

“Travis seems like a nice guy,” I say.

Jamie turns bright red. “He’s just a friend.”

“You sure?”

“He’s straight, so yes.”

I give his shoulder a sympathetic squeeze. “You know Nate was ‘straight’ when I first met him.”

Jamie looks at me with big eyes before glancing over to where Nate’s making out with Evan in the kitchen.

I catch Will’s eye and he flashes me a smile.

“I’d better get going. Are you going to be okay?”

Jamie nods. “I’m fine, stop worrying.”

It feels good to be able to claim Will and leave with him.

We walk in silence for a while down Greek Row. I let myself take it all in. The familiar houses on either side of the road. The sound of parties raging behind the tall brick walls. A car alarm blaring somewhere. “Do you miss it?” Will asks.

“Greek life?”

“Yeah, all of it.”

“Yes and no. I think it’s good for me to have a fresh start.”

Will takes my hand and intertwines his fingers with mine.