“Okay, but as soon as we’re done eating, we have to actually study.” I tried—and failed—to keep a straight face, my tone stern. “And by we, I mean you. Study. Not flirt with me from across the table.”

“How about both?” He flashed me a playful smile. “You know, compromise.”

Impossibly charming and impossible to refuse.

“Whatever keeps you studying and off probation.”

“I’ll have you know I’m pulling straight Bs this semester.” He took a sip of his bottled water, giving me an innocent look that I almost bought. “I’ve been a perfect angel.”

“You mean replaced by an impostor?” I asked, gathering up my empty bowl, napkin, and cutlery, while Chase did the same.

“More like rehabilitated by your good influence.”

We stood and took our garbage and recycling over to the bins by the pillar, then I steered him to the stairwell that led to my favorite study room on the second floor. It was cozy, with comfortable chairs and functioning heat, which was more than I could say for some of Callingwood’s other study areas.

“Hmm.” I hummed, pausing with my hand on the stainless-steel door handle. “If I’m your good influence, does that make you my bad influence?”

“Definitely.” Chase brushed my hair off my shoulder. A shiver ran down my spine at his touch. He tucked my hair out of the way and moved in close, nuzzling my ear. “Speaking of that,” he murmured. “I can’t wait to get my hands on you tomorrow night.”

My breath caught. I was expecting a kiss on the cheek, not dirty talk in the middle of the student commons. But this was Chase I was dealing with.

“Why’s that?” I asked, voice breathy.

“Because I’m going to make you come so hard you wake up your new neighbors.”

A jolt ran through me, and I whipped my head around to face him, eyes wide. “Oh my god. Chase. There are people everywhere.”

“I know.” He gave me a wolffish grin. “That’s why I said it quietly.”

“But now I feel…”

“Turned on?”

“In public.” I scanned our surroundings for eavesdroppers. The seating area behind him was filled with students eating and milling around, carrying trays of food and talking on their phones. Of course none of them had noticed a thing. No one knew I was getting all hot and bothered. But still.

“That’s the point, James. Anticipation is half the fun.” He nudged me, opening the door and holding it for me.

I shook my head, lowering my voice. “You’re such a tease.”

“Of course,” he said. “I love teasing you.”

“I could tease you too, you know.”

His gaze snared mine, warm brown eyes a mixture of amusement and desire. “Yes, please.”

“Famous last words, Carter.”

I would get him back someday. I just had to work up the nerve.

* * *