"You're too impulsive and reckless, Ti. I can't be with you."

Those were the words Casey said to me when she broke things off. I still think about that moment a lot.

Shit, am I really reckless and impulsive? Definitely not, right?

Sure, I can be a little hot-headed sometimes, but I'm never that bad. Usually.

Emmett and Naomi don't think so. They've never shown to have any problem with me so far, so that must mean I'm all good... right?

I desperately needed some fresh air to clear my head. I didn't particularly like thinking about my ex, mostly because it just brings up a lot of confusing feelings.

I decided to go out into Central Park for a smoke and some fresh air. The summer breeze felt good against my skin as I walked past the pond, where a few ducks were swimming lazily.

This is better, I thought to myself, shoving my hands in my jacket pockets as I walked aimlessly around the winding paths.

I swiveled my head around at the sound of laughter and groans, and my heart nearly stopped. There he was—the cute new guy who had just moved to Manhattan, surrounded by some douchebags from school.

This could be the perfect opportunity to go talk to him, I thought. Obviously I'm not just thinking about my own personal benefit, but it is a nice factor.

Before I could second-guess myself, my feet were already carrying me in their direction.

"Hey, ¿Qué pasa? What's going on?" I called out, trying to sound casual despite my racing heart.

"Vete a la mierda, Rivera. We're not talking to ya'," one of the guys, some douche named Leo, said with a sneer.

I glanced over at the new guy. "Well," I said, keeping my voice steady. "Can you leave him alone? Go find someone else to bother, sí?"

The guys all rolled their eyes and scurried off, muttering something about party shitters and boring asses.

I turned my full attention to the new guy, and wow—up close he was even more attractive than I'd thought from afar. His eyes were a striking color I couldn't quite place in the dappled sunlight coming through the trees.

I quickly composed myself by clearing my throat and forcing a smile. It's almost like when I'm in the presence of someone attractive, I become a completely different person. Much more vulnerable. Nicer.

"Sorry 'bout that. Hope they weren't giving you too much trouble." I stuck out my hand. "I'm Tiago."