Dare You To

The dare ended the night Ryan fell for her.”

Do you love him back?” That’s the fastest Ryan has responded since his second beer

I feel Ryan’s lips tug into a smile before he says one word: “Can.”

“I, Beth Risk, do double dog dare you to kiss me in front of all these people.” Ryan’s eyes brighten and the arrogant smile that makes my heart trip over itself spreads across his face. “Are you forgetting dare etiquette? You have to dare before you can double dog dare.”

I roll my eyes. “Fine. I dare you to kiss me.”

“And if I do?”

“If I win homecoming, which I won’t, I’ll wear that damn tiara for a week straight.”

“It’s over now,” he whispers against my mouth.

I expectantly part my lips for his kiss. “It is.”

“Mr. Stone. Ms. Risk,” calls the assistant principal. “A little more space between you and a lot more paying attention.

“I miss you in my bed,” he murmurs so only I can hear.

My smile grows and Ryan’s face reddens.

“That’s not what I meant. I meant I miss sleeping with you.”

I know what he means.

“You’re annoying.” He lets go of my hand, slips his arms around my waist, and pulls me close to his strong body. “You’re beautiful.

Ryan’s here.

A good-natured smile settles on Scott’s face.

“And Prince Charming awaits.”

She would have run regardless of what happened between us and because I love her, I would have followed.

Ryan moves closer, wraps a protective arm around my waist, and shuts his eyes. “I trust you.”

“Nice try.” I softly mock elbow him with my padded cast and his chest moves as he chuckles. It feels so good to tease him again.

“The other thing. Say that.” HC TITLE-AUTHOR

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“I love you.”

Enjoying his warmth and strength, I melt into him and close my own eyes. “Again.”

“I love you,” he whispers.

“Again.” But this time my mind drifts as I hear his soft declaration. I mean to demand the words again, but then my head finds his chest.

His heart beats steadily in my ear and I have my answer. Both Ryan and I lose ourselves in each other and sleep.