Page 26 of Wanna Bet?

“You went somewhere.”

She forced a grin. “Vacation. Five stars. Would recommend.”

His eyes searched hers like he didn’t believe her, and she realized he was observant in a way that could be dangerous if she let him get too close.

“I’m good,” she added quickly. “Promise.”

He held her gaze another second, then nodded. “Okay.”

No pushing. No prying. Just acceptance.

After a few more minutes they decided to go see the birds. Myah expected there to be more than three ducks, but of course there weren't.

Once they reached the bay, Jace stopped and pulled out a handful of dried oats, unbagged.

“Youre kidding.” Myah snorted, her hand shooting up to cover her mouth.

“What? You said they like oats.” Jace looked adorably confused.

“You were just raw dogging those in your pocket? No bag or wrap?” Myah couldn't help the bubbles of laughter moving through her sternum.

Jace looked amused, looking between the oats in his hands and her, “I guess I didn't really think about it.” His cheeks turned pink and he looked embarrassed.

“It’s okay, follow me.” Myah grabbed his bicep–ignoring the hard muscles beneath–and pulled him closer to the water before taking her own handful of oats.

She knew Jace was watching her intently as she tossed a few pieces into the water. The ducks swam over quickly, snatching them up.

“So,” he said after a moment, “why’d you really ask me to come today?”

The question slid into her ribs and made her suddenly nauseous. Why’d he have to keep reminding her how shitty she was?

Because of a bet. The truth rose like bile in her throat. She swallowed it down.

Instead she said lightly, “Because you looked like you needed to touch some grass.”

He huffed a quiet laugh. “Fair.”

Guilt twisted sharper inside her chest. He trusted her. He showed up. He told her real things. And she was still holding this stupid secret like a splinter under her skin.

Why does this feel bad?

It wasn't supposed to feel bad. It was supposed to be funny, harmless, just flirting, just a game. So why did it suddenly feel like she was lying to someone who didn’t deserve it?

She risked a glance at him. He was watching a dog chase a ball across the field, his expression soft and peaceful, like he wasn’t bracing for impact the way she always was.

The guilt spread. God, she was going to ruin this. She always ruined things.

Tell him. Her thoughts whispered. No, don’t. Tell him. He’ll leave. Tell him. He’ll hate you.

Her pulse picked up and she was beginning to feel crazy.

Jace glanced at her. “You okay?”

She forced a smile. “Yeah. Just high.”

He nodded like that made sense. They walked a few more steps, the grass brushing their ankles.

Then he said quietly, “I’m glad you asked me to come.”