It Started With Lake (Book 1)

Chapter 29: Emani

My smile faltered when I saw the angry look on Lake's face, and I knew I needed to put Xavier in his place. "Just spit it out, Xavier. Lake isn't going anywhere."

Xavier's eyes were guarded like he didn't trust Lake. "I think we should be roommates in the fall. My friend just told me he wouldn't be returning to NYU, and now I have to cover his half on rent. I figured you would love to stay in a townhouse instead of a small dorm."

My brows drew together. "I have a full-ride scholarship, and it will cover my dorm expenses. Thanks for the offer, though."

Xavier nodded. "Well, you could get a refund check and use that towards the townhouse. You are not obligated to stay on campus if you don't want to, Emani. Hit me up if you change your mind."

"She said no," Lake said impatiently. He glared at Xavier as if he wanted to kick his ass. I'm beginning to think these two will never get along.

"I guess I'll get going. Emani, tell your mom thanks for the invite. I'll see you in New York, " Xavier said with a wink. He grabbed a to-go plate and left.

"I can't believe he asked you that bullshit," Lake hissed. I could see his pulse throbbing in his neck as he spoke. "He acts as if you don't have a boyfriend."

"Yeah, I was surprised too. He's cool, but I don't know him enough to live with him," I replied.

Lake relaxed a fraction and pulled me against him for a hug. "Right. Anyway, I think Seven is trying to get your attention."

Sure enough, Seven was waving me over. "I'll be right back, Lake."

I kneeled down, and she whispered, "Is Kendall here yet?"

"Who is that?" I asked, surprised.

"My friend, " Seven whispered. She smoothed down her long pigtails, and I grinned. "Mom said he could come. We are going to play video games."

Just then, a dark-skinned boy with waves in his head stepped inside the living room. He wore a spiderman shirt, jeans, and red converse. His eyes met Seven's, and I knew there was something between them. My little sister was really growing up. Make it stop.

"Come on, Kendall," Seven yelled, getting his attention. Kendall smiled before rushing off down the hallway with Seven.

"Who was that?" Lake asked in a protective tone.

I laughed. "Our little Seven has a crush named Kendall."

"Oh, " Lake mumbled, eyes still on the back of Kendall's head. "Isn't she too young for that?"

I put my hand on Lake's arm, savoring the feel of his muscles. "Lake, you're a mess. We all had little crushes at that age. Are you ready to get out of here?"

He leaned down and kissed my forehead. "Sure. Let's get some food to go. I want some more of those rolls."

After packing our to-go boxes, Lake and I rode back to the hotel. I inserted the room card and threw myself on the bed. Lake climbed on top of me and started kissing me. His kisses were hungry, and my dress was off before I knew it. I felt his fingers unclasped my bra, and it slid off.  Then he stood up and removed his shoes and jeans. I bit my bottom lip in anticipation.

"I love your body, E." He hovered over me and smirked.

"I love yours too, " I murmured, running my fingers over his abs. He didn't work out much, but his torso was toned.

Lake reached into his pocket and pulled out a foil packet. "Can I ask you a question?"

He positioned me on top of him, and I straddled his stomach. "What's up?"