“Oh… I didn’t know,” I replied coolly. Trying to smooth things over, I added,
“Want some ice cream?”
“Is this your way of apologizing for being extra earlier?” she teased as we got into the car.
“Just take the offer while it lasts. Five, four, three…”
“Velvet vanilla ice cream with strawberry toppings would be great,” she said, rolling her eyes.
“Thought as much.” I chuckled, then called to Jackson, “Take us to a nice creamery, somewhere downtown. My princess needs a treat.”
“Okay, boss,” Jackson replied, taking a right turn.
After a long silence, Lexie asked, “How did your appointment go? Are you getting better or worse?”
“The session was amazing, and I’ve got great news for you guys when we get home.”
She perked up. “Tell me! Is it about your recovery?”
I grinned. “Not until we’re home.”
She groaned, slumping back into her seat. “So why give me a hint if you weren’t going to say anything?”
“It’s more fun that way.”
“I hate you,” she muttered, glaring out the window.
“You’ll love me more when you hear the news.”
We picked up her ice cream, and Jackson drove us straight home. I tried making conversation about Justin, but Lexie wasn’t interested unless I spilled the beans about my news. It was a battle of wills, and I wasn’t backing down.
“That’s not a fair deal.”
“Life isn’t fair,” she shot back.
“Should I get you something else?”
“Bribery is punishable by law, remember?”
I burst out laughing. “Very well, then. Let’s leave it be.”
***
Dinner was in full swing when I finally decided to share the news. Lexie had been pestering me all afternoon, but I’d managed to hold out.
As everyone enjoyed their meal, I tapped my glass with a fork to get their attention. “I have great news.”
“Finally,” Lexie muttered, poking at her peas.
“Go ahead, Kevin. We’re all ears,” Mom said, her eyes filled with anticipation.
“So… drumroll, please,” I teased, drawing out the suspense just to annoy Lexie.
She rolled her eyes, but I could tell she was dying to know.
“Licia and I are officially back together,” I announced, unable to keep the grin off my face.
“As lovers?” Dad asked, a rare smile spreading across his usually stoic face.
