“You didn’t!”
His cheeks turn red, and he scratches the back of his neck. “I did. And then I forgot your name, so I looked like a complete jerk. And now I’m going to have to hide from her until graduation.”
“Good thing you only have one more semester,” I say.
He bumps his fist against the steering wheel. “How about pizza? I need to carb load.”
“For what?” I chuckle.
He gives me a serious smile. “Finals.”
I throw my head back with a laugh. “Does that work?”
“Yes. Carb loading is the only way to prepare for important events.”
I doubt it’s the answer to all of my problems. But… “I could go for some pizza.”
Chapter 13
Grant
I’ve never been more humiliated in my life than when I showed up at my boss’s house earlier this evening carrying two grocery sacks of toiletries and clothes. My only current belongings.
I spent two days convincing myself I didn’t need anyone’s help or pity. Then I remembered my commitment to myself and to my grandpa, to be brave. And sometimes, the bravest thing someone can do is admit they need help and then accept it when offered.
It took two days in a crappy motel to realize that the fire was a blessing. I hated that forsaken old building. I hated being lonely. And now, for a moment at least, I’m not.
I’m laying in a comfy bed, in a house full of luxury, and waiting for Lennox to get home.
Home. I like the sound of that.
I’d like it better if she wasn’t on a date with that mountain man. Where did she even meet him? How long has she been dating him?
I realized something else while I was on my way over. If I’m here, I can keep tabs on this relationship. Then casually jump in with my unsolicited advice and not-so-subtle flirting. I should have come to my senses two days ago when she offered her help. Maybe then I could have convinced her not to go out with him.
How long is she going to be out with him, anyway? Is she kissing him?
I push myself out of bed. I can’t torment myself like this all night.
The Bentley’s go to bed at 10:00 every night. They have ever since I was a kid. Because at exactly 10:15, we would sneak out of the house and go cause chaos around town.
It’s ten now, so I know they won’t be awake. I take my time walking around the large family room and sitting room, admiring all the Christmas decorations and family photos where everyone isn’t just smiling, they are truly happy. I can see it in their eyes, feel it in their smiles. I will do whatever it takes to put smiles like that on my family someday.
I move on to the next one of just Lennox. Her senior photo. It’s one of my favorites because just looking at her, I can see in her eyes her excitement for the future.
I want to share that future with her.
I plop down on her favorite corner of the couch and text Micheal. I'm going to get crap for this, but I need to know what he meant.
Grant: Why did you say I was the only guy you could trust Lennox with?
His response is immediate.
Michael: Because I know you’d never try to take advantage of her.
Such a big brother answer.
Micheal: Also, because I could whip your butt. It’s such a hassle trying to maintain dominance.
