Drew: Book One of the Perfectly Independent Series

by Amanda Shelley

  Why is he asking about Sunday? We’ll see each other in class before he leaves for his road trip. Does he not want to go?

  Me: That’s the plan.

  Drew: Are you busy tomorrow night?

  Well, this is unexpected.

  Me: I’m working until ten. Why?

  Drew: Never mind. I’ll see you in class tomorrow. Have a good night.

  What the hell? Even for Drew, this is vague. I want to say something but don’t even know where to begin.

  I start to type something, and then stop.

  Delete every word, then do it all over again.

  Finally, I stick with simple.

  Me: You, too. See you tomorrow.

  I roll over to get comfortable. But the vagueness of our conversation rolls through my mind on a loop, leaving me more confused than ever.

  17

  Abby

  The rest of the week flies by. Sure, I see Drew during class, and we text. Each night, he manages to message me right before bed. Nothing comes of our conversations, but they make my day complete.

  Is it weird that I like his attention? I mean, we’re just lab partners… but I’d like to think we’re becoming friends, too.

  What shocks me the most is when Drew texts right before his game.

  Drew: How was your day, Angel?

  Yes, he typically starts each text like that, making my heart race and stomach flutter.

  Me: Good. Ready for the game?

  Drew: As ready as I’ll ever be. It sucked being on the road for so long, but I finished a paper and studied a bit. Though Grey snoring next to me proved to be a challenge. That man can sleep through anything.

  I laugh at a picture of Grey snoring next to Drew on the bus. I can only imagine what road trips with the team must be like.

  Me: How are your parents?

  Drew: Good. Kathy’s taking good care of them at home. She’s a godsend.

  Me: Tell them I say hi, next time you talk to them.

  Drew: Will do. Since the game’s not televised, what are you doing tonight?

  I laugh aloud, knowing I wouldn’t be watching the game either way. I’m not that big of a fan.

  Though if it meant I’d get to see his sexy form running up and down the court, I could be persuaded

  But I’d never admit it to anyone, especially him.

  Drew: I gotta run. Need to warm up. I’ll let you know how we do.

  Abby: Knock ‘em dead. Talk soon.

  Smiling, I shake my head and shove my phone into my pocket. Since I’m done studying for the night, I head to the living room to see if Chloe’s home. I find her in the kitchen making a snack. Just as she reaches into the freezer, she asks, “Want a pint?”

  I don’t even care what flavor. This is Ben & Jerry’s we’re talking about. “Duh! Like you have to ask.”

  I hear her chuckle as I grab spoons for the two of us and head for the couch. “What do you feel like watching?” I ask as I plop down and get comfortable.

  “I don’t really care. What looks good on Netflix?” She flops herself down next to me and hands me my pint of Ben & Jerry’s. Then she picks up the remote on her side of the couch.

  Yum. It’s one of my favorites, Salted Caramel. “You can choose. I have no idea what’s showing these days,” I offer as I take a bite of delicious ice cream.

  Chloe settles on a romantic comedy I’d never heard of before. As the opening credits start, she asks, “So… what’s going on with Drew?”

  Instantly, my hackles rise. “What do you mean?”

  Chloe just stares at me expectantly, so I feel the need to explain the obvious. “We’re friends.” I shrug dismissively, though even I can tell I sound a bit defensive. But it’s the truth, so why deny it.

  I huff out a sigh at that realization. Pathetic, right?

  Chloe eyes me suspiciously and remains quiet. I can tell her wheels are turning, and I may not like what’s on her mind. “You want more,” she eventually says as a statement, rather than a question.

  I exhale heavily and roll my eyes, as I practically whine, “I don’t know…”

  I clear my throat, so I can gather my thoughts and continue in a normal voice. “At first, I thought we were only friends. When everything happened with his parents… I could’ve sworn there was something more. Then, when we returned to school… there was that romantic evening on campus… but at the end of the night, nothing changed.” I shrug as if that should explain everything.

  “Is he the one who’s been texting you at night?”

  How does Chloe know about that? I’ve been tight-lipped about Drew since returning from Spokane.

  “Yeah,” I admit.

  Chloe drops her chin and stares at me as if she knows I’m holding out on her. Damn, she’d make a good warden. With that look alone, I’m ready to confess just about anything.

  “Okay… Okay.” I hold my hands up in defense. “Yes, Drew and I’ve been texting. But so far… it’s stayed completely in the friend zone.”

  Chloe’s eyebrows shoot to her forehead. “You… want out of the friend zone? I mean… Drew’s hot as hell. If he were paying attention to me, like he is to you, I’d jumped all over that.”

  “Chloe,” I chastise.

  “What?” She throws her arms up, then continues, “Why don’t you just tell him how you feel? It’s not that difficult. I know you’re out of practice since you dated that douche canoe. But communication is key in relationships. You do want a relationship with him, right?”

  I bury my head in my hands. “I don’t know what I want. I mean… I know I’m attracted to Drew. But is he worth the risk?”

  “What risk are you talking about?” Chloe asks, her voice sincere.

  I take in a deep breath and slowly exhale. “I guess… after my fiasco with the douche canoe, I’ve been focused on getting into med school. I don’t even know where I’ll be living next year. Is it worth getting involved with someone, knowing I’ll be moving in a matter of months?”

  Chloe reaches out her hand and pats my leg. “That’s something only you can decide. But for what it’s worth, I think Drew’s a great guy.”

  “I know,” I groan.

  “Why not think of it this way… What if…” Chloe cocks her head to the side and stares at the ceiling for a moment, deep in thought. “Ask yourself, what you’d be thinking a year from now if you don’t tell Drew how you feel?”

  I take a moment to consider my feelings. If I’m being honest, I know there’s more going on between Drew and me than just a friendship. Instantly, I recall the electric current that flows in his presence.

  But do I want to act upon it?

  As if sensing my thoughts, Chloe places a hand on my thigh as she solemnly states, “You know, Abby… More people regret the things they don’t do, rather than the ones they do. Only you can make this decision, but I don’t want you to wake up a year from now, wishing you’d said something to him. There’s a long time between now and next fall. Think of all the time you could enjoy together until then.”

  “But what if…” I stop myself from revealing my deepest fear.

  Fuck, if I voice it aloud, it could become reality.

  Before Chloe or I can say anything more, Sydney walks into the room and drops her purse onto the coffee table. “But what if what?” she asks the room.

  Chloe looks to Sydney with a slight grin. “Abby…” She looks pointedly at me. “Has feelings for Drew but is afraid to voice them.”

  “He’s made it very clear…” I look to them to clarify. “All he wants to be is friends.”

  Sydney shakes her head in disagreement. “I don’t think so, Abs.”

  “Did you ever stop to think that maybe he thinks you’ve friend-zoned him?” Chloe points out. “I mean, you’re so focused on school that you never even notice the guys around you.”

  “But why would he be interested in me that way?”

  There. I’ve finally voiced my biggest fear aloud.

  I close my eyes for a
moment as the next words tumble out of my mouth. “I mean, he can have anyone he wants. Why me?”

  “Why not you?” As I finally open my eyes, I see Sydney shaking her head. “You’re smart, funny, beautiful…”

  Chloe cuts her off, “Trust me. I’ve seen the way he looks at you; it’s not in a friend-zone way, Abs. I’d be willing to bet he’d like something more.”

  “He says he never dates during the season,” I quickly spew out. “And he’s made this weird comment more than once about being glad he’s chosen me for a lab partner.” Suddenly, I gasp at the realization. Shit. “You don’t think he’s going to turn out like the douche canoe, do you?”

  “I’m pretty sure no one is like douche canoe.” Sydney shakes her head in laughter. “Drew pulls his weight in class, right?”

  Rolling my eyes at the effort he’s gone to do his share, I know without a doubt he’s nothing like my ex. “Yes. Drew does. In fact, I’ve never had a better lab partner. So… he’s definitely not like him.”

  “Thank God!” Chloe shouts out to the room and flops back on the couch.

  “No kidding.” Sydney laughs at Chloe’s theatrics.

  “Seriously, Abs. You just need to relax and let whatever’s supposed to happen between the two of you, happen. And for God’s sake, just tell the guy you like him.”

  I shake my head dismissively as I contemplate their points.

  Before I can say anything further, Sydney interrupts my thoughts.

  “Well…” Sydney draws out. “Since he’s on a road trip and won’t be home until late tomorrow, let’s go out tomorrow night to get your mind off things. It’s my first Saturday off since your birthday, and I want to dance. What do you say?” Sydney looks to both of us before continuing. “Wanna go?”

  There’s something about the way Sydney invites us that makes me think there’s more going on. Usually, she’s the last person who’d be at a bar on her night off. Maybe she’s had a stressful week and just wants to let off steam. I keep my opinions to myself, knowing Sydney will reveal what’s bothering her in her own due time.

  Chloe never being one to turn down a night out with the girls, shouts, “I know just the place.”

  Even though the place is crowded for a Saturday night, Chloe, Sydney, and I don’t have to wait long. Chloe marches us to the front of the line, and we’re let in within minutes. Chloe and I spot a table against the wall, while Syd makes a beeline to the bar. She returns with shots for all of us. Apparently, Syd’s not messing around when it comes to letting loose. Chloe and I each look at each other, eyebrows raised before looking back at the shots. Hopefully, the alcohol will loosen Sydney’s lips, and she’ll reveal what’s bothering her. Because this is unusual, even for her.

  On the outside, Sydney looks as if she’s having the time of her life. “These are B-52s. Let’s drink up, ladies.” She hands us each a shot glass, then lifts hers to the air. Chloe and I quickly join her for a toast. “Here’s to taking what we want and never settling for less.” The look of determination in Sydney’s eyes tells a different story but for now, she throws back her drink like a pro, and Chloe and I do the same.

  Having never taken a shot before, I’m surprised I’m able to drink it all at once. It tastes better than expected as the alcohol flows down my throat. I might just have to try another one before the night’s through.

  Before either Chloe or I set our glasses on the table, Sydney heads back to the bar for more drinks. I give Chloe an apprehensive look, but when Sydney returns with a smile on her face and says, “I couldn’t carry both the drinks and the shots. Here… I got us all White Russians. Be sure you stick with Kahlua tonight, or you’ll regret it in the morning.”

  “Everything all right?” I ask Sydney as I watch for her tells. She and I can’t hide much from each other, and if something is bothering her, I’ll know.

  “I just need to unwind. It’s been a long week, and I want to shake my ass on the dance floor. Drink up, so we can get out there.”

  We each reach for our drinks from Sydney, and I do as I’m told. It goes down easy. Maybe too easy, and I realize… I need to pace myself it we’re staying out all night.

  Just as we’re finishing our drinks, my phone buzzes in my pocket. I pull it out to check my notifications. I can’t help the smile that spreads across my face when I see Drew’s name flash across the screen. Is he back in town?

  Of course, my two best friends notice and laugh at me.

  “Guuurrrlll,” Chloe drags out. “You have it so bad.” I hear as I rush to unlock my phone.

  Drew: Just got back, you busy?

  “It’s Drew. He wants to know what I’m doing!” I yell above the music to Chloe and Syd, in hopes that they won’t mind my answering his text.

  Before I can type a reply, Chloe grabs my phone and quickly types something into it. She waits for a reply then types something again. Just as I reach to get it back, she shoves my phone down her bra, pivots, and leaves for the dance floor.

  Not knowing what she has said, I panic. She could’ve told him to get lost, or worse, that I like him. Total honesty, both options are equally horrifying at this moment.

  “What the hell did you say to him?” I scream over the music as I follow her out to the dance floor.

  Chloe shimmies and sashays her way to the middle of the dance floor. She throws her arms up and dances without a care in the world. When she finally makes eye contact, she says, “You’ll just have to trust me.”

  Trust her? How the hell am I supposed to trust her? I’m not even sure I like her now. She just stole my phone and said God knows what to Drew. She knows how I feel about him, so I doubt she’ll do much harm. But I don’t ever do well with the unknown.

  “Dance with me,” she pleads. “I promise it’ll work out.”

  I stare at her for a long moment, contemplating what to do next. I should just reach down her shirt to get my phone. But do I really want to make a scene?

  No. Not really.

  Throwing my arms in the air, I let the music flow through my body and get caught up in the moment. I’m still irritated, but I’m not mad. The smile on Chloe’s face shows she’s got my number, and I just nod foolishly in agreement.

  Yeah. I still like her.

  Barely.

  A few beats later, Sydney’s dancing on the other side of us. As the music pulses through my veins, I feel the effects of the alcohol. My body’s warm, and my muscles loosen as I shake my ass on the dance floor, without a care in the world.

  A few songs later, I feel two large hands grip my hips from behind. At first, I tense, not wanting to dance with a stranger, the way Sydney’s doing now. Not that I’m judging. I just wish it were Drew.

  Before I can look in his direction, the stranger bends to speak in my ear, “Mind if I dance with you?” My body lights on fire. His touch, his scent, and the possessive way he guides my body on the dance floor has an effect greater than the alcohol in my system. My heart races, my nerve endings explode, and I get lost in the moment. The entire room could burst into flames, and I wouldn’t notice.

  With his chest to my back, his body grinds into me in the sexiest of ways. He has one hand in the air like mine, while the other guides my hips. We bop, dip, and sway in sync with the music. I’ve never felt more exhilarated in my life.

  When the song turns to a slow one, my partner spins me to face him. His beautiful face and perfect lips take my breath away. Did he get even better looking in just a few days? Is that even possible? “Hi,” I say, breathless.

  “Hi yourself, Angel.” He grins devilishly, and my heart skyrockets nearly out of my chest.

  I force myself to remember to breathe.

  18

  Drew

  I’ve spent all day on a bus, riding back to CRU. What would’ve taken a five-hour trip in a car, turned into seven hours on a bus. I love my teammates, but I just wanted to get the fuck off the bus. With any luck, Abby won’t be busy tonight, and we’ll get to hang out. I’ve tried all week to do
the right thing and just see her as a friend. But let’s face it—at this point, it would be like trying to survive without air. Somehow, she has managed to work her way under my skin, and I’m not sure I want to let her go.

  Oddly enough, it took Mom pointing it out for me to realize just how important Abby’s become. My parents came to the game in Spokane. It was their first outing since leaving the hospital.

  After the game, I spent a few minutes with them before I returned to the team’s hotel. I’m sure if I’d asked Coach, he would’ve let me stay at home, but since we had a volunteer clinic early this morning, I thought it best to stay with the team.

  After pulling off another win, my parents wait in their seats for me. They are in the ADA section since Dad doesn’t have the full strength to travel far on crutches. I feel their sense of pride as I approach.

  With Mom being more mobile, she stands to greet me. Throwing her good arm out and extending her cast for me to embrace her in a hug. “Oh, Drew, it’s so good to see you. You had an amazing game. Well done, honey.”

  “It’s good to see you, too, Mom.” I pick her up off her feet, like I’ve done since I became taller than she, then set her down before turning to Dad. “How’s the leg?” I ask as I give him a side arm hug.

  “As good as expected,” Dad downplays with a shrug. “My lungs still give me hell from time to time, but they’re getting better every day.”

  I hug Kathy in greeting, but before any of us can say anything, we’re interrupted.

  “Great to see you all out and about. You gave all of us quite the scare last week.” Coach Bradford walks over to Dad and shakes his hand. “Nice to see you again.”