Jace points at me while descending the porch steps. “Glad I could turn that frown upside down.”
“No take backs.”
His brow furrows. “Huh?”
I chuckle. “Never mind. Thanks for the blessing, man.”
He tosses me a wave over his shoulder. “Don’t thank me yet. Sutton still has to agree.”
“Hey,” I call out before he disappears from view.
Jace stops and turns. “Yeah?”
“Can I catch a lift?”
“Where to?”
I squint against the setting sun. “Your parents’ place.”
He motions me over. “Hurry up and hop in.”
13
Grady
Happy something #60: Listening to Sutton make magic out of simple words.
My heart pounds a bit harder when the familiar mailbox comes into view. The headlights flash over that little red barn, a miniature replica of the one standing tall around back. I smooth a finger along the tattered seam of my cap just for something to do.
Maybe this should have waited until morning. I could’ve called Sutton and asked her to meet me tomorrow. Showing up unannounced might be overstepping my bounds. But she used to love surprises. More road disappears behind us, the property edge that much closer. Too late for second-guessing now.
Gravel crunches under the tires as Jace pulls over. The truck rolls to a stop before we reach the driveway. He slings his arm over the wheel and shoots me a grin. “We’re here.”
“Sure are.” I glance out the window. Even in the near darkness, bright-white fences and sprawling acres of land speak to me. My greatest escape.
“Feeling okay?”
I offer a slow nod. “Thanks again, Ace.”
He lifts his chin in my direction. “Don’t make me regret it.”
“I won’t.” The words come out as a low growl.
“Good.” He checks his reflection in the mirror. “I have a date of my own so get a move on.”
I use that as an excuse to stall in my seat. “Anyone I know?”
“Nah, she’s not from Silo. I swiped right. Maybe I’ll get lucky.”
“Or catch a case of crabs.”
Jace laughs. “That’s why I’m always prepared with extra protection. Wrap it up and stay clean. You can’t hate on the game unless it backfires.”
A shudder courses through me. “Don’t need that shit anymore.”
“So in love,” he coos.
I flip him off. “Better than hooking up with a random stranger.”
