37
CONNOR
Igive a polite little bow Arthur would applaud me for. “It would be my pleasure, sir. We just need to get Cateline her vitamins.”
The official-looking man dressed in a gray suit and with a sharp nose goes still. “I thought she said she needs her medicine.”
“Ah, yes, medicine, vitamins, it’s all French to me,” I answer on the fly.
“It’s for my heart,” Cat says shakily.
“And the bottle is in my luggage,” I add.
“You know, couples that travel together and all. Things get mixed up,” Cateline singsongs and bops her head from side to side. I’ve never seen her nervous like this, then remember when she said that she’s a terrible liar. I’d laugh and playfully tease her if this weren’t an important meeting.
“We’ll be right back.” I grip Cateline’s hand and lead her outside so the guy doesn’t try to stop us again.
When we’re out of earshot, I ask, “What’s going on?”
“I woke up and my parents were in the living room with him.” I go on to explain what I think is going on.
I open the trunk of the car, carrying on with the charade that we’re getting her vitamins or medicine or whatever.
As if we both realize no one can see us, time slows down, allowing us a few seconds to get our bearings. Without thinking, I wrap Cat in my arms and let out a long breath. I close my eyes for a moment and take in her lavender scent.
She melts into me as if she’d been waiting all night for this hug.
When we part, her dark eyes brighten with hope.
“I’m sorry for being an idiot,” I say.
“I’m sorry for telling you to grow up and?—”
That’s all I need to hear. “What kind of toothpaste do you use?”
Confusion ripples across her features.
“He’s going to ask.”
“You mean, you’re willing to get the green card?”
“Willing? I want to.”
“To help me return to Concordia or so your coach doesn’t kick you off the team?”
“Cateline, Monsieur Marais attend,” her mother calls.
“She says Mr. Marais is waiting.” Cateline looks down at her hands.
I lace my fingers around hers and squeeze.
She looks up and says, “Colgate and my toothbrush is purple.”
I smile and say, “Same, and mine is blue.”
Once back inside, Mr. Marais wraps his knuckles impatiently. “Miss Berghier, Mr. Wolfe, if you intend to pursue marriage, we must continue this interview.”
Cateline and I nod at the same time. He asks us about our individual and joint visions for the future.
