She gives me a hug. “I love you too, Lola.”
We walk out of the store, and all I can do is smile.
“Buying lingerie always makes me happy. And my mom totally supports my habit. She’s a firm believer that a woman should splurge on panties and bras. But I’m sure it’s going to trigger a phone call when the statement comes in. It’s a dead giveaway that I’m upset about something, and I haven’t told her about Toby yet.” Courtney laughs it off but her voice slightly cracks, and I can tell she’s thinking about it, which upsets her. I try to change the subject before she gets lost in Toby thoughts.
“When I’m a millionaire, you’re getting tons of gifts.”
She perks up. “The only gift I want is your brother wrapped in nothing but a bow.”
I playfully nudge her.
“Hey, I’m just being honest.” She smiles.
On the way back to her townhouse, I look down at my phone as another text message from Travis flashes across.
Travis: Drew’s home a little early, and he’s stinking up the kitchen with his special tofu recipe.
I reply, knowing exactly what Drew’s making. It’s this Asian dish with broccoli and soy sauce. For some reason, he thinks it’s the most delicious thing on the planet although we all tell him it’s disgusting.
Viola: Gross. Enjoy that.
Travis: I’ll smile and pretend it’s chicken, like always.
I laugh because I do the same thing.
Travis: So about that lingerie? When will I see?
I can’t wait to show him.
Viola: I dunno. I like keeping you on edge.
Travis: Tomorrow?
Viola: Tuesdays and Thursdays are usually booked to the max with tutoring and classes, so I’m stressing just a little.
Travis: Don’t worry about me, princess. I’ll be just fine. Drew’s making enough of this crap that I’ll be eating it until my ribs heal.
I feel bad for not being there for him, but I don’t see how I could work it in. I’ll have to make it up to him.
Viola: If you need anything, I’ll be your on-call nurse.
Travis: Anything? :)
Viola: Well not anything, but you know!
Travis: Damn. I’ll keep you in the loop. Promise.
Viola: Sounds good :)
Travis: I’ll be thinking about you naked all day tomorrow.
I read his message over and over again. Sometimes, seeing this side of Travis doesn’t seem real. But I have to remind myself that it is, and for once, I’m getting exactly what I’ve always wanted.
Viola: Shut up! :)
Chapter 7
Travis
