“You’re scared.”
“Shitless.” When did it become so easy for me to admit my vulnerabilities to her?
“I’m surprised you gave in.”
“So am I.”
“Why did you?”
“It’s time to face my demons.”
“You don’t have to face them alone. I’ll be there to support you every step of the way. If you want me to wait in the car, I can do that, or if you want me to walk with you to Cole’s gravesite, I can do that too. Whatever you need.”
I’m falling in love with this girl. I don’t deserve her, or happiness. Walking away from her will be one of the hardest things I’ll ever do. I hate to admit it, but Trevor isn’t so bad. He’ll treat Cin right, and that’s what matters.
“Thank you.”
I can’t remember the last time I made that statement and meant it.
“You’re welcome.”
I become lost in the beautiful smile she rewards me with.
“You hungry?”
I clear my throat. “I could eat.”
“According to the GPS, we’re in Hagerstown, Maryland. Ever stop here?”
“No, only drove through.”
“Check to see what restaurants are around.”
“What are you in the mood for?”
“I could use a big, fat, juicy burger.”
“Got it.” I do a quick search. “What about Dixie’s Burger Joint?”
“Sounds good.”
“Are you planning on visiting your parents while we’re in Boston?” I take a bite of my burger.
“Nope.”
“Do you think you’ll ever forgive them?”
“They don’t deserve forgiveness.”
“What about your grandfather? What has he done to make you hate him so much?”
“He’s a manipulative, narcissistic prick.” Art laughs. “And I’m just like him.”
“You’re not.”
Why can’t Art see he’s so much more than what he believes?
“I won’t deny who I am. I’m not the hero, Cin—I’m the anti-hero. There’s no goodness in me, so don’t look for it, because you’ll be disappointed.”
