And Emilywasright. This does feel like home.Hefeels like home.
51
Your Favorite Leo’s Birthday (aka The Epilogue)
I have been to Jake’s birthdays since I can remember. My gift was the fact that I was there and wasn’t hosing him off. But now, I’m hisgirlfriend.
And I’ve never done this before, you know?
“You know, you’re clever.”
Jake hums, looking up from the book he’s reading.
“Making me your girlfriend right before your birthday, so now I have the responsibility to give you an amazing present.” I narrow my eyes at him.
“Yes, a lot of scheming.For years.” He agrees, going back to the book.
I mean, I do have an idea, but is it too basic? He’s a loud person in a good way, and I don’t want him to think I don’t knowhim or what he likes. Like, what if this is a gift I’d like to receive and not him?
Leave Before You Love Me by the Jonas Brothersplays on the old radio Miss Patty keeps around the library.
I hum along while staring off into the distance, overthinking my gift.
Then I remember our baby faces. And the way my cheeks must have been hurting by the way I was smiling, and how excited he looked to be photographing me, and my doubts fade away.
“Stop it.” Jake says, lifting his eyes from the book.
“What?” I ask, not so discreetly trying not to smile.
“You’re making me lose focus on the book.” He shakes it lightly in front of me.
“How so?” I question, curiosity getting the better of me.
“Your face is doing that thing when you get excited about something.” He accuses, with frowning eyes and a finger pointed at me. “Like when you see me.” He smirks like an idiot.
I roll my eyes, and he rolls back, taunting me. I get up smiling and force the book to his face.
“Read.”
He catches my hand and lays a kiss on the palm, and I blush.
“Those red cheeks make my day.” He laughs, and I pretend to be annoyed at the words he always throws back at me.
“I have to go.” I inform Miss Patty with a knowing look.
I have to get home to write the title on the photo and wrap the photo and frame.
“Why?” Jake asks, with a mischievous tone.He knows exactly why.
“I’m going to non ya.” I respond earnestly, and he doesn’t understand at first.
“Non ya?”
“Non ya business.” I childishly quip back, and he rolls his eyes.
“Oh, so you’re five now?” He crosses his arms.
“We’re finally the same age…” I respond, walking backwards towards the door, and he nods, amused.
