“I don’t think I should. She and Hads are close, and I don’t want to put her in any more positions where she has to lie.”
“Okay,” I agree, nodding. “So we keep this to ourselves for a while. We act normal around everyone… but when we’re alone?” I lean in, voice low. “You’re mine.”
He smiles, eyes sparkling. “I’m all yours.”
Finally.
Nineteen
Hudson
It’s been three days, and I’m still reeling from Friday night.
When I got home, after learning the sound Cull makes when I kiss a sensitive spot under his ear, I had to sprint to my room and jerk off. I’d been painfully hard from the second his lips met mine, and somehow, we managed to not push for more.
It was almost painful to end our night on the bridge, but my mom had called and killed the moment. She started talking about Hadley and how Cullen had broken up with her, and well, mood ruined.
We haven’t seen each other since. Between family gatherings all weekend for Easter, we’ve only had time to text.
Alot.
Hadley caught me glued to my phone and commented on me blushing. Cullen responded with a fewabsolutely not-safe-for-workmessages that nearly gave me away. I lied, claiming Ella was flirting.
I’ve tried to keep my excitement in check when Hadley’s around. I don’t want her to feel like I’m rubbing it in, even though she thinks it’s Ella on the other end of the phone.
She’s been mostly quiet since Friday, but I’ve heard her crying in her room a couple of times. Each time, the guilt weighed me down further. I’m getting everything I’ve ever wanted with Cull, and it’s killing me that it’s coming at the expense of Hadley’s feelings.
Mom, meanwhile, is soaking up every lie. She’s been giddy all weekend. I told her I was with Ella when she called Friday night so she wouldn’t ask too many questions. Now shekeeps gushing about me looking “happier” and that I have “the glow.” Whatever that means.
Apparently, a good makeout session does wonders for my mental health and my skin.
Now that it’s Monday and officially spring break, I’m antsy with anticipation. A whole week with Cull and no parents. Even with a big group going, I’m hoping we’ll steal some time alone. I’ve got years of catching up to do, and I’m eager to learn new things from Cull.
And with him.
Our grandparents were generous enough to let a bunch of teenagers take over their mountain lake house for the week. They bought it back when Hadley and I were in middle school, and our entire family used to go often. It's been a few years since our last family vacation, so I'm excited to be going back.
I’m shoving the last of our supplies into the back of my Bronco when Mom and Dad come outside, Hadley trailing behind, whining full-volume.
“He dumped me, Mom. You should call the Andersons and tell them Cullen is no longer invited on this trip.”
I roll my eyes. She’s repeated it all morning, and our parents give her the same answer every time.
“Cullen has every right to go. He’s Hudson’s best friend, not just your ex-boyfriend. I know it hurts, pumpkin, but the house is big enough for you to keep your distance.”
One point to Dad for being the voice of reason.
“You’ll have fun with your girls. And who knows? Maybe you’ll meet someone new while you’re there.”
And one point to Mom for giving her false hope.
At least it works. Hadley relents, gives them each a quick hug, and climbs into the car. I’m already in the driver’s seat, having said my goodbyes earlier while loading up.
Mom and Dad come over to her rolled-down window and lean in.
“We know you kids will get up to some shenanigans,” Dad says, eyeing us both, “but we trust you to be smart about your choices.” He gives us a stern look, then softens into a smile. “Alright. Be safe, have fun, and make some memories.”
“Thanks, Dad.”
