Chapter 3: Headbands, Heartbeats, and Hazards

Everything went quiet for a second.

Then Carter’s face drew closer, like he was studying me.

I felt my cheeks flush. Nervous.

"Yeah, I did say that."

His voice was soft, almost resigned.

I just stared, stunned.

Whoa.

Yep, Carter’s brain is totally fried.

Just then, Biscuit leapt from my arms into Carter’s.

I just stared. Did that really just happen?

Completely stunned.

I reached out, but Biscuit immediately buried his little head in Carter’s arms, not even sparing me a glance.

Ugh.

I’m jealous.

But then, Carter’s big hand reached out and gently pinched my cheek.

Carter’s fingers were warm, and his touch was unexpectedly gentle. "Biscuit just got here a few days ago—he’s still getting used to people. Don’t be sad."

Before I could react to Carter’s gentle tone and intimate gesture, Biscuit looked up and meowed at me a few times.

His little meows sounded almost apologetic, like he was trying to reassure me.

I blinked, caught off guard.

Whoa.

Is this what it feels like to be loved by a cat because you love its owner?

Only those who’ve experienced it will understand.

Carter gave me a gentle smile. "See? Biscuit likes you too."

Ha.

Thanks a lot, Carter.

Looking at Carter’s dazzling smile, I made a silent vow: I may not get the guy, but I will get the cat.

"Carter, your injury looks serious. Did the doctor say when your memory might come back?" I needed to get the facts first.

I tried to sound casual, but my curiosity got the best of me.

"The doctor said my amnesia is only temporary. Three months at most. If I spend time with old friends, I’ll probably remember sooner."

Three months? That’s plenty of time.

No way I can’t win over a cat in three months.

Looking at Biscuit in Carter’s arms, I steeled myself.

Heh.

And as for old friends—well, that’s me, isn’t it?

Seeing me should count too.

I put on a caring face. "Really? That’s great! Carter, don’t worry, I’ll help you. While you’re recovering, I’ll tell you all about how you used to be my simp. That’ll totally jog your memory."

I tried to keep a straight face, but I couldn’t help grinning.

Carter, now it’s your turn!

Carter’s eyes flickered with something I couldn’t read. Before I could figure it out—

Carter gave me a knowing smile. "Okay, I want to know how I became your simp, too."

His voice was smooth, almost teasing.

I grinned to myself, feeling a little smug.

I really am good at making things up.

Just as I was feeling proud of myself, I didn’t realize how close Carter and I had gotten.

When I looked up, my forehead brushed against Carter’s lips.

...His lips are so soft.

I felt a little dizzy.

Carter’s lips twitched into a quick smile, and he softly asked, "Did I ever do this to you before, hmm?"

His breath was warm against my skin, and my heart skipped a beat.

My mind blanked out.

Panic!

How am I supposed to respond to this?

Our noses were practically touching when Biscuit’s excited meowing broke the moment.

Biscuit, who’d been in Carter’s arms, started pawing at me.

Carter’s face turned a little red, and he hugged Biscuit and stepped back.

Fresh air rushed in, and I snapped back to my senses.

Oh my.

I almost took advantage of him.