I slip into the lecture hall, choosing a seat near the front where I can focus on Professor Scott and, hopefully, remain thoroughly distracted from everything else long enough to absorb what he has to say. Throughout the class, I find my mindwandering back to Jack and Sienna. I picture them in his office, Sienna probably grabbing at his notes while he tries to keep her entertained. A smile tugs at my lips despite the tension in my shoulders.
They keep me sane; most of our time together is filled with pure, unfiltered happiness and it’s the best reminder of what really matters in my life.
Despite my best efforts to focus, History of Psychology goes by in a blur and we’re excused before I realize how much time has passed.
By the time I gather my things and step out of the classroom, the overcast sky has darkened. The wind picks up, carrying a biting chill that contrasts sharply with the warmth of the lecture hall.
It seems colder outside than it did earlier this morning, the temperature dropping by the hour with the incoming cold snap.
My outfit choice for the day was less than reasonable—a short plaid skirt that does nothing to fight off the chill and a loose-fitting sweater that slides off one shoulder, more revealing than it is warm.
I could’ve chosen something more practical, but I’ve still got so many boxes I haven’t unpacked, and… I may or may not have picked this outfit to tempt my new roomie. The way the sweater hangs just right, the plaid skirt riding a little higher than necessary—it’s all intentional, though I’ll never admit that out loud.
I find that I’ve succeeded in this endeavor when I walk by Jack’s window on my way back to his office.
Jack:The length of that skirt is dangerous.
I bite my lip to keep from grinning but fail miserably.
Quinn: Are you creeping on me through your window?
I look up to see if I can see him, but the sun is hitting the window at a weird angle.
Jack: I think you dropped something.
Jack: You should probably turn around and bend over to pick it up.
The obsession I have with this man.
Quinn: I will not be showing the entire student body my lower ass cheeks just so you can sneak a peek, Professor Hollis.
I can’t remember a time when I have ever called him anything but Jack, but I’m being playful.
Jack: Such a shame.
Quinn: You’re insufferable.
But I really like it.
Jack: I’m obsessed with every inch of you, Miss Ivor.
My heart catches in my throat and I appreciate that he reciprocates my playfulness. However, what he says next catches me completely off guard.
Jack: Obsessed with the thought of you taking every inch of me.
Heat pools in my lower abdomen. How the fuck am I supposed to respond to that?
24
QUINN, I FIND, DOES NOT HAVE A GAG REFLEX
JACK
My mother has been gonewith Sienna for less than ten minutes when I see Quinn walk by my office window. She knew Sienna would be staying with Grammy tomorrow for the talk Ezra is giving that she wants to attend, but I wanted to surprise her with an evening alone together.
I always think she looks gorgeous, but she looks particularly irresistible knowing that I will finally have her all to myself for the first time.
I’m leaning against the windowsill and Quinn steps into my office.
