It's the Monday after the auction, and somehow, Jaxon Walker is even more insufferable than usual.
"Carter, tell me, how does it feel knowing you're officially mine for one date?" he teases, leaning against my locker against my locker, his smirk firmly in place.
I shove my books inside and slam the door shut. "It feels like the worst financial decision you've ever made."
Jaxon smirks. "Nah. That was buying limited-edition sneakers I never wore."
I glare at him. "Glad we're on the same level of regret then."
Ethan groans beside me, already done with this conversation. "Can we not do this first thing in the morning?"
Jaxon tilts his head, eyes twinkling with mischief. "I don't know, little brother. Shouldn't you be more concerned about what Carter and I will be doing on our date?"
Ethan shoots him a look. "If you don't shut up, I'll personally make sure your next date is with Coach's treadmill."
I snort. "Now that's a date I'd pay to see."
Jaxon sighs dramatically, placing a hand over his chest. "So much hostility. And here I thought we were all bonding."
"Bonding is what normal people do," I deadpan. "You, Walker, are an entirely different species."
"Aw, Carter, that almost sounded like a compliment."
I roll my eyes, slamming my locker shut. "Your confidence is inspiring... but wildly misplaced"
But before I can make my escape, someone calls my name from down the hall.
My stomach twists.
Because when I turn, I see Ryan walking toward me.
Jaxon's teasing demeanor vanishes in an instant. His body goes rigid beside me, his smirk fading as his eyes darken.
"Lena," Ryan says smoothly, stopping just a few feet away. "Can we talk?"
I swallow hard. "I don't think that's a good idea."
Ryan's jaw tightens. "I justâlook, about the auctionâ"
"You shouldn't have bid on me," I cut him off, arms crossing instinctively.
His lips press together. "I just thoughtâ"
"She said no, Carter," Jaxon interrupts, stepping forward. His voice is lower, sharper than I've ever heard it.
Ryan's eyes flick to Jaxon, his expression hardening. "This doesn't concern you."
Jaxon's smile is all teeth. "See, that's where you're wrong."
Ryan holds my gaze for a moment longer before scoffing. "Fine. Whatever." He turns on his heel and stalks off down the hall, tension still crackling in the air.
Jaxon watches him go before turning back to me. "That guy never learns, does he?"
I nod, though my heart is pounding. "Apparently not."
His gaze lingers a second longer on me before he smirks. "You and I still have a date to plan."
I groan. "You're not going to let me forget, are you?"
His smirk returns. "Not a chance, Carter."
I sigh. This is going to be a long week.