Letting My Brother's Best Friend Take My V-Card

JESS

Walking away from that kiss with Tom, my heart hammered in my chest, not just from the kiss itself but from the fact that I had done it in full view of Luke. My nerves were raw, but I forced a smile as Tom's hand found mine, giving it a gentle squeeze. I could see it on his beaming face. I'd just made his day, and the guilt that I'd done it to get back at Luke would eat me up inside for the rest of the day. But maybe I could convince myself that if I give this a real shot, I might actually fall for Tom.

"That was a really nice surprise," he said softly with a smirk. He squared his shoulder and then left his hand to wrap an arm around my shoulders, walking me into the building like he'd just won some trophy.

I nodded, not trusting my voice. I glanced back briefly and saw Luke standing alone, Tiffany nowhere in sight. His face was unreadable, and I quickly looked away, refusing to let him see what was probably plastered on my face clear as day. "Yeah," I finally managed, letting Tom walk me to my lock-er.

Tom's smile was kind, and he squeezed my hand again.

"We've got English together now, right?" Tom said, and I nodded, pulling open my locker to grab some books.

It was like I could feel him standing right behind me, like my bones knew he was there. I clutched the door handle, trying to keep my focus straight ahead, even though every part of me wanted to turn around and look at him. "Hey, man," Luke's deep voice grated on my ears, sending a shiver down my spine. "You are going Friday?" he asked Tom.

I kept my eyes forward, knowing my face would betray me if I turned around.

He leaned in and kissed my temple, making my heart

the way my heart pounded in my chest. "Yep," I said,

eyes boring into the back of my head, but I refused to give

finally said, his tone unreadable. "See you guys

squeezed my hand, giving me a

you," Tom said before turning his attention

to me.

a breath I

fell silent, not pushing the topic further, and

pounding. Tom glanced at me, curiosity all over his face. "Jess,

"He's just a jerk, that's all. I have no idea why

clearly trying to understand. "He's a good

that to the long

silent, deciding not to push the