Total pages in book: 138
Estimated words: 133688 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 668(@200wpm)___ 535(@250wpm)___ 446(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 133688 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 668(@200wpm)___ 535(@250wpm)___ 446(@300wpm)
“I wonder how many times we saw that movie together,” she says.
“Between the original and the remake, hundreds at least.”
“Did you even like it that much?”
“I liked it enough to watch it with you,” I say swiftly. “Some of my favorite memories were when we were together watching movies. Didn’t matter what it was. I just wanted a reason to be around you.”
We both stay silent as we stare at each other, neither saying what we truly want to say.
“Willy Wonka freaks me out!” Owen exclaims. “He’s weird looking.”
Katie and I laugh because we’ve had similar conversations about that character too.
The three of us finish eating, then dive into dessert. It’s delicious and reminds me of several heartwarming memories from our youth.
Once the table is cleared, I help Katie organize the notebook paper that’s sprawled all over the counter. Owen plays on his tablet, and I watch Katie walk around the house with her phone like she’s making a list of things to do. Maybe my words got through to her, and she’s actually writing things down for me to help with.
Although we’ve briefly talked about our past, I know our friendship isn’t back to normal yet, but considering she hasn’t recently slammed a door in my face or told me to fuck off is progress. It almost feels like we’re friends again, but it won’t be until I tell her the whole truth.
“Alright, buddy. It’s time to go home and get you ready for bed.”
Owen immediately groans, and Katie raises her brows.
“Plus, I gotta sign your agenda and pack your lunch for tomorrow.”
“Ugh.”
“Maybe I’ll see you again this week?” I say to Owen, hoping to distract him. “Only if you’re good for your mom, though.”
Katie smirks, and Owen groans again. “Alright, fine. Maybe I’ll talk Mom into doing pizza tomorrow night,” Owen whispers to me.
“Maybe we can both talk her into it.” I flash him a wink.
“Go buckle up in the car. I’ll be there in a second,” Katie tells him. We watch as he heads out, then moments later, Katie’s standing in front of me.
“I know what I said at lunch today, and I don’t want to send you any mixed signals, so I hope it’s okay that we eat with you. It’s been the two of us for so long that—”
“I love having dinner with you both,” I interrupt, bringing a finger to her lips so she’ll stop talking. “Plus, I’m very grateful for you, and I love your company.”
“I just don’t want to cause any confusion,” she states. “Regardless of the hurt and our past, I enjoy spending time with you, and Owen does too. Though he’s just met you, you’ve made quite an impression on him already.”
I feel bad knowing Owen’s probably craving male attention since he’s been without it his whole life. He has his grandfathers, but it’s not quite the same as having a father figure to talk to and play with.
“I have a lot of making up to do, for both you and Owen, so seriously…come over anytime. This is your house, after all.”
She chuckles with a nod. “Right. Okay, well, I will see you tomorrow then.”
I lean down and press my lips to her forehead. “Good night, Katie Bug.”
She looks up at me with bright eyes. “I haven’t heard that nickname since high school.”
Smiling, I shrug. “And a decade later, it still suits you.”
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
KATIE
TEN DAYS LATER
Life has been crazier than usual, but I don’t mind. I’m trying not to overthink how I feel—how I’ve always felt—about Noah. The reality that we had feelings for each other and didn’t do a damn thing about it has been a lot to process. I’m fighting a constant battle with my emotions over this. Of course, after I spilled my heart and revelations to Gemma and Everleigh, they gloated, and I got them telling me, “I told you so.”
It doesn’t help me much because now they’re encouraging me to “go for it.” I wish a decision like this was easy, but it’s not only about me anymore. I have a son to think about and how dating Noah will impact him too.
On top of that, I’m well aware of how this could affect my relationship with Gabe’s parents. Loretta and Elliot have always been there for me, and they’d never support Noah being in our lives. They understand I’m best friends with Gemma and have been for two decades, but they still act as if she doesn’t exist. If they knew what was going on, Owen would lose his relationship with them, and I’d never forgive myself if that happened.
I don’t like deceiving them. However, it’s necessary for Noah’s safety right now. Until he finds out who’s threatening his life, he can’t go home. I don’t think Loretta or Elliot are behind the brick and bomb, but I can’t exclude them just yet. If I had to guess, it’s probably someone close to Gabe who doesn’t approve of Noah being back and is seeking revenge.