“What?” I swear he’s a code talker.
“Nathan. You’re letting him make withdrawals where he never made a deposit. There’s another way to say it, but you won’t like it.”
And in a moment of unprecedented silence, Jace watches me, waiting for the truth to land.
Or crash like a 747.
“A moment while I question all my life choices,” I mumble and look away.
“Sweetheart, I do that on your behalf every day.”
I scoff a laugh. There’s my Jace. Roasting me low and slow but without drawing blood.
“Come on, the sappy music is about to wrap up. Give Uncle Jacey a hug.” He tugs me out of the car and holds up both hands to show me he’s unarmed. Given our history, this is necessary.
“You can pat me down if you want, Pop Tart … OWWW!”
I’ve wanted to smack him in the head for the longest time. Ten out of ten. Highly satisfying.
“Sam squished me earlier. I probably have cracked ribs. Thanks anyway. Bye.”
“I’m kidding. Truce. I’m not trying to add any more X-rays to my workload tonight. I ain’t about that life.”
“That’s what she said,” I deadpan as I cautiously go to him. He scrunches up his face with mock emotion.
“They grow up so fast!” He squeaks out as he rocks me back and forth, hugging me awkwardly and making me laugh again.
“Did someone tell you to be nice to me?”
“Three someones. For the record, I was set thoroughly straight by the first one. I’m sorry I implied you had less than noble intentions, Spice Cake. I know it’s complicated.”
“Your loyalty’s where it belongs.”
“I knew you’d say that. But you’re not an outsider. That’s the problem. Conflict with you is conflict with all of us.”
“I’m scared, Jace.”
“It’s going to be okay. All you need to do is cut off any jackass who doesn’t treat you right, and I realize I shouldn’t be one of them. Someone told me.Loudly. And extremely close to my face, I might add.” He’s so dramatic. I wonder who got in his face.
Annie? Jude? I have so many questions now.
“Okay. Get out of here. And don’t tell anyone I…”
“That you’re not atotaldouche waffle? Your secret’s safe with me.” My smile drips with snark as he releases me and flicks the bill of my hat. We have a variation of our own handshake, but it’s subtle and quick and only requires one finger.
“Idon’t despiseyou too, brat. Drive safe.”
Chapter 17
I'll Be
Work is stupid, as usual. Sadly, the building was still standing when I got here, and it brought me the same amount of joy it always does.
None.
But I’m on top of my game tonight. I finished cleaning and all of tomorrow’s prep work before closing time, despite an early rush.
“Did you get your car fixed, or is your sweet boyfriend picking you up again?” Lainey asks. I realize, from the swoony look on her face, she means Jude.
