Misspoke

Hearing Zoey's retort, Atticus couldn't help but be slightly baffled. 'If she isn't jealous, then what the hell is happening?'

Zoey's next words gave Atticus an inkling into what was going on.

"Why would I be jealous? I mean, it's not like we're going out or anything. So tell me, why would I?"

Zoey's words were supposed to sound like ramblings, as though she was pondering something out loud, but they were anything but that.

Every word was spoken slowly and given emphasis as though she wanted to make sure Atticus heard her clearly. To put an icing on the cake, she spoke while locking her amethyst eyes with Atticus's.

'Ah, I see. I guess I'm the stupid one for waiting this long to ask.'

Atticus suddenly smiled and cleared his throat before suddenly grabbing Zoey's arm, startling her.

Then, Atticus spoke, each word making Zoey's flawless face change to a new shade of crimson.