The familiar scent of James’s room, a mix of cologne and lingering cheap perfume, hit me as I knocked on his door. "James…" I murmured, pushing the knob. The sight that greeted me made me freeze, my eyes widening slightly before I snapped my head away. "Oh God. I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to. I thought—"

"Who the fuck is that? Who is she?" An angry female voice cut me off. I sighed, dropping my head. Another week, another blonde. I was used to it.

"Calm down, blondie. That’s my best friend you’re referring to," James's voice, muffled by sheets, reached me. A few moments of rustling, then, "Okay, you can turn back now, Lizzie."

I peeked, then turned fully. A scowling blonde clutched the blanket to her chest, glaring daggers. James appeared before me, shirtless, his ridiculously pretty smile already in place. "Hey, good morning."

I gestured to my wrist. "What the hell do you think you’re doing? It’s almost eight." I whispered, acutely aware of the fuming girl behind him.

He put on his pleading look. "I know. I got caught up."

"Obviously." I shot a side glance at the blonde, who looked like she wanted to be anywhere but here. "I’ll wait for you downstairs to finish whatever you have going on."

"Thank you." He beamed, taking a step forward, but I put my hand up, stopping him. "And if you take too long, I’m dumping your ass."

James chuckled, grabbing my hand. He pulled me closer, his face inches from mine, and whispered, "Yes ma’am." The warmth of his touch, the proximity, sent a jolt through me. When he pulled back, a tiny smile played on his lips. I flipped him off, turning to leave, a stupid smile already spreading across my face.