I glance at Erika and sigh with relief when I see she has closed her eyes and is resting her head against the passenger window.
My eyes stay glued to Ash’s, as if in slow motion; everything feels surreal as I pass him by. Then, he does the most surprising thing. He smiles, with pure, bright happiness spreading across his face, then gives me a thumbs-up and winks like a conspirator.
My shoulders drop, releasing any tension, like a catharsis, knowing that Ash is on Erika’s side and trusts me with his precious cargo.
He never wanted her to marry Huck.
Neither did I.
Nobody did.
And I’m so proud that Erika figured out he wasn’t right for her before it was too late.
Thank fuck.
When I hit the highway, I steal a glance at my half-asleep, beautiful disaster. My skin tingles with excitement and anticipation because the whole day has done a one-eighty.
The shit-eating grin I’m wearing makes my face ache; I couldn’t be happier.
“Where are you taking me?” she mumbles drowsily.
“My place.” Under my roof. Where she should have been all along.
“I like your new car, Leon,” she mumbles.
“Thanks.” I shift my focus from her to the road.
She states the obvious: “It’s purple.”
“Yeah.” It’s custom and looks iridescent in the sun.
“It’s my favorite color.” Her voice is barely a whisper.
I keep my eyes on the road, but the corner of my mouth lifts.
I was hoping you’d notice, baby.
“I know,” I reply.
I don’t add that she told me on her porch many summers ago, barefoot and laughing.
I remember. I remember everything.
But I don’t say that either. Instead, I let the hum of the engine fill the silence, pretending it means nothing.
It’s funny how she still doesn’t see it.
How everything I do is for her.
CHAPTER THREE
Leon– The Past: 1 year ago. (Erika: 37, Leon: 42)
Me:
Are you finishing work on time tonight?
Erika:
