Graham.
I propped Hadley up on an oversized pillow on the couch and snuggled next to her as the beginning scenes of a VeggieTales movie played. Hadley’s eyelids sank lower with each blink, and she was peaceful. Now that she was settled my mind went straight back to Elinora. She looked so disappointed when I left. I couldn’t leave things the way they were. With Hadley entirely distracted now, I texted her.
Me: Sorry about the freak storm.
Elinora: It’s not your fault. If they had seen it coming, they wouldn’t have even started the movie. It came out of nowhere. How’s Hadley?
Me: Better now that she’s home.
Me: Thanks for understanding.
Elinora: Of course.
Me: This wasn’t what I planned.
Elinora: I know.
I tapped my thumbs on the edge of my phone, fidgeting while I tried to find the words to explain how I was feeling. I didn’t want to come off desperate, but I wanted her to know how I felt.
Me: I’d love a chance to make it up to you. Would you want to have a redo?
Elinora: I don’t know what I want.
My brows knitted together as her answer was vague and seemed to allude to something else.
Me: Everything okay?
Elinora: Not really. I’ve been really flustered since running into you.
My heart sank, as that didn’t exactly sound like she was excited to see me.
Me: I know you’re leaving soon, but I don’t want you to leave with this awkward flop over our heads.
Elinora: Sort of like the last awkward goodbye we had.
Me: Yeah, it’s been ten years, and I still can’t get that out of my head.
Elinora: Me neither.
Me: I can tell Hadley needs some time at home, but if you want to come hang out with us, you’re welcome. Say, tomorrow night for dinner? I can make my famous tacos.
Elinora: Are you sure?
Me: If you are.
Elinora: Text me an address.
My heart ticked up a notch.
It was only tacos.
Yet, it wasn't just tacos. It was a chance toseeher. If we could spend time together, like we used to, things might feel like us again.Don’t mess this up,Graham, I muttered as I flicked myphone down next to me. Hadley had nodded off into slumber. I was left with racing thoughts.
I’m one of those guys who only knows how to go too far.
Too far in football.
Too far with the law.
