Her eyes widen as she reaches for my hand. “God, Noah! That’s so exciting. I can’t wait to see it!”
“That’s what I like to hear. You can carry all the boxes into the house for me while I hang out by the pool!”
“There’s a pool?” she basically squeals.
And a white picket fence, like you always wanted.
Likewealways wanted.
“Yeah, and the kitchen is massive.”
“Okay, fancy pants.” Audrey beams at me. “Just tell me what you're making for dinner every night so I can decide whose house to eat at.”
“You got it. I’ll be sure to make enough for both of us every night.”
She takes a long sip of her tea before meeting my eyes. “Do you actually want me to date someone else? You said it at the club … I know we’ve had some couple-y moments since then. I just want to know if you actually feel that way.”
Shaking my head, I reach out to her. “I’ll never force you to do anything Auddie, I just want you to choose what makes you happy. And know that I’ll be here waiting whenever you’re ready to give us a shot. If it turns out you’re never ready, that’s okay too. I screwed up my chance seven years ago, now the ball’s in your court.”
Her eyes don’t leave mine. “Well, then it’s settled.”
“What is?”
“You gotta date the heck out of me.”
I give her a smirk. “I can do that. And I know exactly where to start.”
Twenty-Three: Audrey
With You - Tyler Shaw
I’ve spent the better part of the morning trying not to jump across the diner table to kiss Noah. The kiss this morning was far better than I could’ve imagined. I was worried that if I didn’t stop, we’d never come up for air. But honestly, I could’ve spent all day in bed with him—getting to know the adult version of him in ways I’ve only imagined.
But I also love experiencing this side of him. Walking down the street side by side playing tourist is a great trade-off, especially when he suggested we go to the aquarium.
I haven’t been to one in forever so when the building comes into view, I begin to feel giddy.
“Hand holding?” Noah asks, suddenly.
“What?”
“I’m just trying to figure out what you like.” He scratches his neck nervously.
Why is he so cute?
“You can hold my hand,” I tell him confidently.
His hand finds mine instantly, shooting fireworks through my skin. “What’s your thought on hugging in public or me holding you against me?”
I turn around so I’m in front of him. “Noah, you can touch me however you want, whenever you want.” He flashes me a wicked grin, earning a playful smack. “Behave yourself, that's not what I meant.”
Okay, maybe a little bit.
“Sorry, Auddie. I’ll be good.” He squeezes my hand as we buy tickets. “Alright, back to all the questions I have.” He smirks. “Forehead kisses?”
“Always.”
“Nicknames?”
