“Yesterday she told me she’s been calling you and you haven’t answered or called her back. I told her you were busy writing and I thought she was okay with it but when I called her cell a few minutes ago, she was already on the train.”

“When did she leave?” I ask, holding my breath and entering full-blown panic mode.

“She got into Penn Station a few minutes ago. Depending on whether she’s taking a cab straight to you or taking the subway to Grand Central, she could be there any minute.”

“I have to go. Thanks for the heads-up.”

“Wait, wait, Kara!”

“What?” I ask.

“Is Ryan still there? Are you guys together?”

“Yes, and I think so.”

“Oh, my God! Did you have sex with him?” She sounds desperately curious and I’m too frenzied to lie.

“I did. Many times.”

“I love it! Call me ASAP. I want to know everything, positions included!”

“Gross, no!”

“Please?”

“Fine, goodbye.” I hang up the phone as horror continues to rock through my system. Mom could be knocking on the door at any given second.

Ryan smiles over at me without a care in the world. “Problem?”

“Yes, you have to get out.”

“What?”

“Go, you have to go. Right now!”

I sprint to his side of the bed and grab his arm, trying to drag him into a standing position by force. “You have to get up! My mom is on her way here.”

Ryan’s mouth twitches up, ready to start laughing, and his nonchalance only fuels my anxiety. I give his arm a fierce tug and, thanks to the adrenaline now pumping through my veins, I’m able to pull his half-naked form out of bed with less effort than I anticipated.

“Are you trying to tell me you don’t think I’m ready to see your mom again? Is it my outfit?”

I give him a frustrated look as I pick up some of his clothes from the floor and chuck them at him. Not appreciating his lack of urgency, I put my hands on my hips and glare at him, still only wearing his favorite college sweatshirt and T-shirt. His smile vanishes.

“Sullivan, you have never looked as sexy as you do right now.” He takes a determined step towards me and I jump back.

“No way!” I yell, holding out my arm. “Don’t even think about it!” He continues to advance, his eyes drinking me in. “I swear, take one step closer and I will maim you. I was a biter in preschool so I will not hesitate to fight dirty.”

He stops walking. “Okay, I’m sorry, I can’t control myself. You look way too good in that shirt. You should take it off. I’m a gentleman so I’ll help you.”

I manage a little laugh as I toss him his jeans. “Just take Duke for a walk, okay? A very long, far walk.”