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“Yeah, I didn’t want to leave.”

“Don’t blame you. I love California.”

“Really? I read for a great part in a Netflix series, and I made quite the impression! They think it’s going to be massive—merchandising, comic con tie-ins, maybe a film, eventually.”

“Wow, sounds promising. No wonder you were celebrating.” Riley’s eyes dropped to her phone, catching Piper’s latest Instagram story.

“So, what about you? Women’s studies? Philosophy?” He ducked his head, trying to read the title of the book in her lap. “Future librarian? I love books, me.”

“NYU, Tisch School of the Arts. I graduate in May.”

“NYU, eh? Sounds impressive. Hey, maybe we’ll perform together one day.”

“I doubt it.”

“Well, at least tell me your name so when you’re famous, I can tell everyone ‘I used to know her.’”

She looked up. “Oh, I’m not an actress. I’m a film and television major. I want to work behind the scenes…in casting or as a director.”

“That makes sense.”

“Why?”

“You’re bossy.”

A forced laugh left her lips. “Jeez, thanks a lot!”

“Hey, bossy is a compliment!” His adorable smile made an appearance again. “You’re feisty, a go-getter. You like to be in charge. I think it’s great. You should embrace it.”

When you put it that way… Riley grinned. “Oh, you’re a charmer!”

“I am!” He promptly offered his hand to her across the aisle. “Benjamin Fagan—Ben.”

Riley squinted at the bloodstained bandage and accepted his hand carefully, barely touching it. “Riley Hope.”

“Ah, sorry.” He frowned, tucking his hand away. “Wanna hang tonight, Riley Hope?”

She returned to her phone. “I can’t…”

“Why not? Technically you’re still on holiday, right?”

“You look and smell like you’re on a permanent holiday.”

“Envious?”

“No.” She laughed.

“Go on, admit it—you’re envious. No classes on Monday, no essays to write, no rules, just…freedom to do what I love and have a blast doing it, you know?”

Sounds perfect… Riley flicked her thumb along her screen, scrolling at warp speed.

“Come on! Put the phone down, live a little. You seem down about…something, and it’s Saturday night—St. Patrick’s Day! Let me repay you for helping me. Let me cheer you up.”

“I don’t need cheering up.”

“You don’t? Really? For someone coming off holiday, you’re really bummed. It’s your eyes—something’s bothering you.”

Shit! Is it that obvious? Riley continued scrolling.