“What—”

“Hey, Annabelle.”

Oh shit.

Jasper directed his greeting over my shoulder, meaning that I just need to turn around to see her. Funny how, every day, I hope to casually run into a certain person, but the massive campus doesn’t allow that to happen, yet it practically delivers my ex-girlfriend right into my lap.

“Hey, Jasper. Hi, Ben.”

Yep, that’s her voice all right. Soft, sweet, and shy, almost like a child’s.

I’m not a jackass, so I turn around with a polite smile to return her hello. “Hey, Annabelle.”

She hasn’t changed much since the beginning of the summer when I broke things off. Her wavy sunshine hair still falls a few inches above her waist. The legs peeking out of her thickly patterned bohemian dress show off a solid tan. Annabelle is a naturally beautiful girl who looks like she belongs on some California beach, sitting around a bonfire, weaving jewelry out of twine and seashells.

Right now, she’s approaching me like I’m a stray dog who might sprint away if she moves too fast. Perceptive, as I’m contemplating giving a quick wave and jogging off to safety. But that’s the coward’s move. It’s just that the last conversation we had made it clear that we weren’t right for each other, which I said. And then she cried.

I stand firm and embrace the awkward small talk. “How’s it going?”

She beams like I’ve done her a favor. “I’m doing really well. Had a good summer with my family. And I’ve been working on a lot of new pieces.”

“That’s great. I’m glad to hear it.” Not a lie.

Annabelle’s art was the first thing that attracted me to her.

“And you? How are you doing?”

I have no intention of discussing with one of my exes my current unrequited infatuation, so I share the news she might care about.

“Summer was mainly working. You know, temping at my parents’ law firm. And, just a month ago, an organ donor match was found.”

“Oh my gosh, Ben, that’s fantastic!” Annabelle clasps my shoulder and smiles up at me.

The gesture is nice, but my heartbeat doesn’t pick up, and my skin stays the same temperature.

“We should celebrate! My roommates are throwing a party at our house on Friday night. You need to come.” After a pause, she turns her smile to Jasper, probably just remembering he’s there. “And, of course, you’re invited, too, Jasper.”

“I’m not sure—”

Jasper throws his arm around my shoulders, cutting me off, “Of course we’ll stop by.”

The irritated glance I give my friend doesn’t go unnoticed. Annabelle releases her hold to link her hands behind her back and stares up at me through her eyelashes, her mouth turned down in a heartbreaking pout. A pose I’ve come to learn is practiced.

“I know we broke up, but I still care about you, Ben. And it’s just a small party.” She clasps her hands together underneath her chin, her next words coming out breathless and excited. “And, if you come, I can show you some of my new pieces. You know how much I value your opinion.”