Fake Dating My Ex's Hockey Star Brother (Maya Scott) novel Chapter 61

KATY’S POV

It’s only the second day of midterms, and campus already feels like a war zone. Everyone looks half-dead, running on caffeine, and whatever energy drink they could grab on their way.

I’m not even the one writing Braydon’s test, but somehow, I’m more anxious than he is. He’s got one of his toughest courses today, and I’ve been lowkey freaking out for him all morning.

When my test finally ends, I grab my things, planning to check on him. But the moment I step into the hallway, I almost collide with someone.

I stumble back, my eyes narrowing at the creature before me.

“Hi, Katy.”

You know that feeling when a random guy on the street starts talking to you and you’re not sure if he’s about to beg for money or rob you? Yeah. That’s me right now, just standing and staring at Bryan.

And for the love of God, why is he smiling?

My mouth moves before my brain can stop it. “Boy, bye.”

I step to the side to walk past him, but of course, he shifts the same way, right into my path.

I lift my head to glare at him, and instantly regret it. He’s standing like he’s auditioning for an ad, with his shoulders relaxed, jaw set, and one hand in his pocket like he’s that guy. I almost gag.

“Come on, are you really gonna be this harsh?” he asks, his lips curving into what I assume is supposed to be a smirk.

No. Absolutely not. That move only works when it’s Braydon, the actual person I want to see right now, not this walking headache.

“I’m going to need you to back away,” I say slowly, pronouncing each word like I’m speaking to a toddler.

He blinks. “How was Business Ethics?”

Oh, we’re doing small talk now?

I turn around, deciding that retreating is the best option, but of course, his legs are approximately twice the length of mine, and in two steps, he’s already in front of me again.

Seriously? I’m going to develop a migraine just standing here.

“I won’t ask what you want because I don’t care,” I snap, crossing my arms. “So can you…I don’t know…piss off?”

He spreads his hands like he’s the reasonable one here. “Don’t you think it’s unfair you’re not giving me a chance? I mean, am I really worse than Braydon? With his track record?”

Oh, he did not just say that.

“Maybe you should keep Braydon’s name out of your mouth,” I snap. “Honestly, you, your dad, and your mum need serious help…and maybe a few lessons on how to stay away from people who don’t want you.”

His eyes darken, jaw twitching. There’s a flicker of surprise there too, like he didn’t expect me to bring up his family. Tough luck.

If he’s going to ignore my boundaries, I’m going to bulldoze right through his private life. Besides, someone needs to stand up for Braydon.

“So he’s the reason you’ve suddenly switched up?” His voice drops low. “He’s been filling your head with lies? Really?”

I take a step closer, clutching my bag so I don’t throw it at him. “Every time I see you, you try to come up with a reason why I dumped your ass. Newsflash, Bryan…it’s because you’re an asshole. And I hate you. I hate your guts, your voice, and the fact that I ever liked you in the first place.”

He tilts his head with a smirk that makes me want to slap him. “Have you even thought about your actions long-term? Braydon has nothing to offer you, Katy. He’s a dummy. I bet he’s sweating his ass off right now, trying to guess his way through his test.”

My hands clench at my sides, but of course, he doesn’t stop.

“And when he fails again, because he will, he’ll lose his sponsorship, and goodbye to any chance of going pro. Then what? You’ll be stuck with him and his big dreams that don’t pay rent.”

He steps closer. “Meanwhile, I could give you everything you want. I’m even remorseful about the things I did. You should be grateful for that.”

I scoff, shaking my head because apparently, I have the worst luck on earth. Or maybe there’s just an invisible sign on my forehead that says ‘Hit me up with your best bullshit.’

I lick my lips, take a steadying breath, and meet his eyes.

“I don’t know what makes you think you’re better than Braydon,” I start. “First of all, he wouldn’t barge into my space in the middle of campus to dump this garbage on me. He’s respectful, something you clearly skipped in life orientation, which already makes him at hundred times better than you.”

He blinks, his mouth twitching, but I’m not done.

“Second, you should seriously worry about yourself. Go read a book or meditate or…I don’t know, journal about your issues. Because Braydon never talks about you. Ever. Meanwhile, you’re out here building a one-sided rivalry that’s making you look pathetic.”

“Kat-”

“And,” I cut him off, holding up a hand, “I would sooner grow a third boob than go out with you again.”

His face goes blank, like his brain just froze trying to process that.

“Katy!”

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