“Just go. And pack a bag. What if the next place his aunt sends you is out there and you need to stay the night?”
“Val.”
“Oooo, pack the red dress. You never know when you might need something fancy.”
“Oh my gosh.”
“And don’t forget toothpaste,” she calls as I’m walking out of her and Micah’s room.
Do I want to go with Alex? Yes. I really do, and that’s why I needed my sister to tell me no. To tell me to be responsible and stay with my family. Although, I have no idea why I expected she would. Driving out into England with a handsome near-stranger sounds exactly like something she would actively promote.
It was late when I got back to the hotel last night, so I didn’t have a chance to mention what Alex proposed until this morning, after breakfast, while we were getting ready to go to the London Zoo, where we planned to spend the day. I don’t know why I told Alex we had morning plans. We had day plans. It was almost like I wanted to leave myself an opening, but not simply say yes.
I love zoos, but I’m excited at the prospect of seeing more of England. And, of seeing more of Alex. I’ve got to tamp that down a bit.
IVY
Hey. You were right. Val is practically forcing me to go with you.
He answers almost instantly.
ALEXANDER
Glad to hear you’re going against your will. It only hurts a little…
I roll my eyes, but it also makes me smile.
IVY
I have to make sure you stay humble.
ALEXANDER
You’ve been humbling me from the beginning.
ALEXANDER
I like it.
I wonder if I’m the only person to ever humble him.
IVY
Could we leave at 2?
ALEXANDER
Sure. I’llpick you up.
ALEXANDER
You might want to pack a bag, just in case. I’m assuming we’ll be back tonight, but if she has planned a place nearby, it would be nice to be able to take care of it. If you’re okay with it.
IVY
Wasn’t it a couple of days between the last two riddles?
ALEXANDER
