I arch a brow, sensing that she’s holding back. “Is Betty the only one contributing to the bill?”
Riley’s eyes dart away from me.
In that moment, I unearth another layer of her selflessness.
Overcome with pride, I slide an arm around Riley’s shoulders. “I’m honored to know you, Riley Carter. You’re one-of-a-kind.”
She smiles—her first, real smile since I grabbed her in the hallway.
I wipe my thumb gently below her mouth. “And I’m sorry again. For over-doing it earlier?—”
“Don’t apologize.” Riley stops in front of a door and winks at me. “I liked it. A lot.”
My pulse gallops.
I can’t tear my eyes off her.
Does she know the vise grip she has on my heart?
Does she know how absolutely perfect she is for me?
The room door opens, and I force my gaze away from Riley to an older woman with deep wrinkles around her eyes, frizzy grey hair and bright pink lips. She’s wearing a black T-shirt and leggings.
At first, the woman tilts her head as if she doesn’t recognize Riley. But then she smiles. “Oh, Riley! You’re back!”
“Hi, Betty. I—oof.” Riley’s greeting is smothered in Betty’s shoulder as the woman pulls her in for a hug.
“I was just thinking that I haven’t shown you the music video for Neon Veil’s new song. It’s called ‘Echoes of AfterImage’ and it is justdivine.”
“Actually, youhaveshown me the music video, Betty,” Riley says in a gentle voice. This tone is the opposite of her strict teacher voice, but I find it just as compelling.
Betty’s mouth twitches and her eyes fill with momentary panic. But she brushes it away with a tight laugh. “Oh, right. Right. Yes, I remember that now. Did I give you the Neon Veil sweatshirt as well? It’s original merch. I didn’t buy it from a re-seller.”
“Yes, you did give me the sweatshirt. I love it and use it often.”
“Wonderful.” Betty glances at the doorway where I’m still standing. I figured it was best to let the ladies have their moment rather than barge in.
“And who is this handsome gentleman?”
Riley wraps her fingers around my bicep and tugs me inside. “This is my boyfriend, Nathan Campbell. I spoke so highly of you that he wanted to meet you himself.”
Betty fluffs her hair and blinks rapidly. “Well, if I knew you were bringing company, Riley, I would have dressed a little nicer.”
“No need. You look beautiful, Ms. Betty.”
“Oh, just call me Betty, you sweet-talker. Riley,” Betty whirls around, “does your boyfriend have an uncle or perhaps a grandfather who might be single?”
“I’m not sure.” Riley throws me a helpless look.
“You don’t need to look far, Betty. A beauty like you should have all the men out there lining up.”
“That’s not the case. I assure you.”
“What’s wrong with them? Are they blind? You’re stunning.”
Betty throws her head back and laughs. “Oh, I like you. What was your name again?”
“Nathan, ma’am.”
