After watching her go into her house, I turned my car back toward the bookstore. I had just enough time to purchase our New York travel guide before heading home. Yes. I was that guy.
Cost of the first unofficial vacation plan for me and Bella: twenty-two dollars and fifty cents.
Chapter 21
Week8–Thursday
Isabella
Gio, Francesca, and I were standing at the bus stop, and I was exhausted. Although I knew I had made some progress in letting go of Marco the previous day, it really had taken a toll on me. I was exhausted. Wondering if it was possible to sleep standing up, I closed my eyes.
“Need a ride?”
I thought I was dreaming, but Liam’s voice sounded again.
“Earth to Bella.”
My eyes flew open and Liam was grinning at me. This car was totally unexpected. Before I could respond, my sister was bouncing up and down.
“Can we come too?”
Liam smiled.
“That’s why I brought the Wrangler. Come on, you three. I don’t want to get stuck behind the school bus.”
It was all my siblings needed. They both hopped into the back. Liam reached over and opened the passenger door. Of course, I would never refuse a ride; I hated the bus. I just felt bad he went so far out of his way.As I climbed inside, I sighed.
“You didn’t have to come all this way.”
He rolled his eyes.
“A simple thank you would work, you know.”
Francesca leaned her head between us.
“Thank you, Liam.”
“You are very welcome.”
As we pulled away, I turned to face him.
“Grazie.”
Reaching out, he squeezed my hand.
“Figured you might have had a rough night.”
I nodded my head and closed my eyes. Luckily, my family had plenty to talk about as I tried to focus on the cool breeze and keeping my emotions in check. It didn’t even bother me that they were telling Liam some embarrassing stories about when I was little.
Eventually, we arrived at school. I opened my eyes.
Gio and Frannie thanked Liam again and hurried off to meet up with their friends. Liam walked around the side of the car and leaned against my door.
“If you’re not up for this, we can play hooky.”
It was so tempting, but I shook my head.
“I have an English test today.”
