Hostile Exchange

Chapter One

Evan

The student center is swarming with families, all dressed in their Sunday best. I probably stick out like a sore thumb in my black jeans and maroon polo, but I couldn’t afford any new clothes, not even from the thrift store.

Not after Mom found my stash and spent it all on Jose, Jack, and Morgan, her three favorite men.

She got so wasted that night, she was hungover for like three whole days.

I couldn’t even yell at her without feeling like I was kicking a dog while it was down.

My gaze strays to the blonde guy I’ve been watching all afternoon.

He’s the most handsome guy I’ve ever seen.

He’s got smooth, tan skin, sparkling green eyes, and a strong build that hints at the man he will become one day.

His smile is dazzling, but there almost seems to be something sad hiding in eyes.

I sigh at my inner thoughts. Clearly, I’ve been reading too many of the romance novels that Bee got me hooked on.

Deciding to stop acting like a creepy stalker, I make my way over to the coffee stall and get in line.

The university went all out for the award ceremony.

Attendees are able to order from any of the available food stalls in the student center without having to pay.

I plan to hit up the Italian vendor before I leave to get something to take home.

Natalie and Sarah will be so excited to eat real food for a change.

We’ve been surviving off of peanut butter and jelly for the past two weeks.

I shift my stance and accidentally bump into the person behind me. Turning to apologize, I’m rendered speechless when I meet the eyes of the guy I’ve been drooling over. “Um– sorry! I was lost in my own head,” I finally manage to get out.

The shy smile he gives me makes my heart race. “Don’t worry about it. I might have been standing a little closer than a normal person would while trying to build up the courage to introduce myself.”

My eyebrows attempt to get lost in my hairline, before I school my face. Holding my hand out for him to shake, I introduce myself, “I’m Evan.”

Taking my hand gently, he responds, “Reese.” I almost miss his name, too distracted by the sparks that shoot up my arm at his touch.

“Are you here to support someone or are you in the running for the scholarship as well?” I ask, just managing to not cringe at the basic conversation starter.

Reese’s smile drops just a little before he manages to put it back in place. “Uh yea, I’m up for the scholarship. It’s kind of a really big deal to my father.”

“That’s awesome that he’s supportive! I’m pretty sure my mom doesn’t even realize I’m not at home right now.” My eyes widen before slowly sliding shut in shame. “Please ignore me. I have a tendency to overshare when I’m nervous.” I mumble out.

Reese’s warm laugh makes my skin prickle, and the hint of mint brushing across my face has me leaning forward unconsciously.

Reopening my eyes, I’m gifted with the sight of how laughter changes Reese’s whole demeanor.

He’s naturally handsome, but the sight of him light and loose in laughter is absolutely stunning.

“I think you’re cute when you overshare,” he says, and we both blush.

Thankfully it’s my turn to order, saving me from having to respond.

I place my order and move to stand at the other end of the counter.

Reese joins me after placing his own order.

We make awkward small talk infused with even more awkward attempts at flirting as we wait for our drinks.

Coffee in hand, I’ve finally worked up the courage to ask him out, when something over my shoulder catches Reese’s attention.

His entire body tenses up, and he takes a step back from me.

Grabbing his coffee off the counter, he says “It was really nice to meet you, Evan. I wish things could be different,” before he turns and disappears into the crowd.

What. The. Hell?