Peering down, I see her eyes are closed, mouth turned slightly up in a smile. She looks comfortable, she looks like she belongs next to me.
I decide right now that no matter the distance, no matter where we are come the end of summer, she will be mine.
I will do whatever it takes for Maisie to allow me into her world, even if that means staying.
I would stay for her.
The party continuesand we sing happy birthday to Elaine who, to no one’s surprise, is loving the attention.
I take out my phone to snap a photo and it captures the perfect moment with Maisie holding the cake, grinning so wide, while her mother blows out the candles. I decide not to tell Maisie about this one, I want to somehow surprise her with it; it will look beautiful on her wall at home.
“So I saw you two getting pretty comfortable over there,” Miles says. “Pretty closefriendsI see.”
“Yeah.” I don’t look at him but I can feel him staring me down. “I really like her.”
“Just be careful with not only her feelings, but yours too. I don’t want you getting hurt.”
“Do you think it’s too soon to tell her how I feel?”
“I don’t think so, but maybe not tonight. I know everyone has been drinking, including your girl.” He takes a sip of his water since he’s the driver tonight. “Maybe you two can talk about it next time you check off a date.”
“Not dates,” I correct. “Speaking of which, an item on her list is to go camping. Do you care if we use that area by the small lake on your property to set up camp?”
“Sure,” he says. “I haven’t been down there in ages though, so it probably needs some upkeep.”
“Oh, boys!” Wren yells as she and Kevin waltz up to us, arm in arm. “Would you want to help us get a fire started?”
“I wouldn’t mind seeing you guys swing an axe.” Kevin laughs with Wren.
“Sure.” Miles lets out another laugh and it makes me smile seeing him comfortable and happy for once.
“Be sure to flex those muscles for your girlfriend, Henry!” Wren says. “I’ll make sure she’s watching!”
“Come on.” I start walking towards the fire pit, rolling my eyes playfully. “But let’s get you guys some water first, alright?”
“Whatever you say, Father.” Wren scoffs when I grab two waters, handing one to each of them.
28
MAISIE
My mom’s party is truly one for the books, I think it’s been her best yet. So many people have shown up throughout the night and it warms my heart seeing so much love thrown her way.
While all the older adults are inside talking about who knows what, myself and a few others, including Henry, Wren, and Kevin, have been sitting by the fire and talking nonsense for hours.
Somehow me laying my head on his shoulder turned into me sitting on his lap when more people showed up by the fire. We’ve been inseparable since. Brushing of hands, his fingers resting on my thigh, fingers entwined… we’re always touching in some way.
I’m scared that I like it, it feels natural with him.
“I’m gonna run to my truck and grab a sweatshirt. I’ll be right back.” Henry squeezes my hip as he lifts me off his lap.
“Can I come with you?” The alcohol in my system causing me to ask questions out loud that I should be keeping in my head. I’m not that tipsy anymore, but it’s easier to blame alcohol than my own thoughts.
“Of course you can, you never have to ask.” He gently smiles. “Let’s get some water while we’re gone, okay? I don’t want that pretty little head to be throbbing in the morning.” He messes with my hair.
My heart flutters at his thoughtfulness and how much he cares for me.
We walk hand in hand to his truck—normal things that friends do.
