Chapter 29
Spencer
I
force myself to hang around the lobby with the others, waiting for Tanner to report back on his date with Lyra.
Even saying that in my head makes me grit my teeth.
But after the bonding of last night, I need to wait with the others.
It’s been a long afternoon and even longer evening as images of Lyra with Tanner begin to haunt me.
I may still be jealous that Tanner has gotten this chance, but at least the regret has calmed to a dull roar in my mind, and I honestly wish Tanner the best. He’s a good guy.
If I’m not the one who ends up with Lyra, I could handpick a few of the men for her.
If I want to torture myself, that is.
I don’t want to think about that. I’m not ready to give up yet, but I’m not sure what I’m going to do if I don’t get the next one-on-one rose.
Finally, close to midnight, Tanner returns, as smiling as he was when he left.
He’s immediately accosted by the others, all wanting to know how it went with Lyra.
“I’m hopelessly in love with Princess Tema,” he says with a laugh.
“What about Lyra?” Charlie asks. “Are you hopelessly in love with her?”
“That would be too easy, if I thought I had a shot.” Tanner shrugs his shoulders. “I don’t think I have a chance in hell with Lyra.”
“What do you mean?” Rand asks.
“I think there’s only one guy here that’s got a chance.” And Tanner looks right at me. “I hate to say it, but it’s you, man. It’s all you.”