Page 11 of Introvert
Ryker came out of a room near the back of the bus, walked forward and crossed his arms, holding his drumsticks in one hand. He was a big guy, but the pose made him look even bigger, more intimidating.So did the scowl on his face."Okay, which one of you stole the last slice of my pizza?"
"How were we supposed to know it was yours?" Elliot asked.
"My name was written on it.In all caps."
"Oh."Thelead singer held his hands up. "Hey, it wasn't me."
"Me neither," Hayden said with a grimace. "I hate pineapple on pizza."
Santino nodded. "It should be a crime.Also, everyone knows how possessive you are about food."
"I am not," Ryker said.
"Yeah, you are. And hangry too."
"Shut up."
Santino shot him a wink. "Thanks for proving my point."
Ryker's gaze shifted and stoppedon someone I couldn't see. "Felix?"
"Yes?" a familiar voice said.
"Did you do it?"
"Do what?"
"You know what."
Felix sat forward, leaning into the aisle, sitting near the front of the bus.
"I'm not saying I ate it," he said, "but if I did, I probably didn't know it was yours."
"All. Caps," Ryker repeated.
"No comment. But…pineapple on pizza is surprisingly good."
Several groans met that statement. Then Ryker suddenly said,"Oh, hey.Didn't see you there."
It took me longer than it should have to realize he was talking to me.
I'd gotten so caught up in their antics, enjoying the back and forth, content to sit back and people-watch, so it was a shock to suddenly have five pairs of eyes on me.
And they were all looking.
At me.
Jeez.
Lifting my hand in an awkward wave, I said, "Hey, everyone."
Santino looked me up and down. When his eyes came backto meet mine,his brow furrowed. "Someone hire a stripper?"
I nearly choked.
"Not that I'm judging," he added, "but you look too young forthat life. Stay in school, kid."
"I'm not a stripper," I said finally finding my voice.
