Suddenly I felt more tired than a flag on July fifth.
I’d made it two steps down the path when Thad’s voice boomed behind me. “You ditching me already? I know, I suck as an island guide. Sorry, Charley.”
“I thought we agreed. No moresorry, Charleys.” I stopped, letting Thad catch up. “Listen, it’s okay. You’ve got a full plate, and to be honest, I’m a little worn out.” I hated admitting it, but it was true. I was so tired my legs trembled. I began walking again before I fell down. No more fainting for me.
“So did y’all get the Search plans all worked out?” I asked.
“What?” Thad frowned.
“You and Samuel. And Rives. Y’all have been talking for forever, about tracks and hot spots and who knows what else.”
“And here I didn’t think you noticed,” he said, smiling.
Was he kidding? I’d spent the whole night knowing exactly where he was. I couldn’t tell if he was teasing or not, but I was too tired to figure it out.
We reached my hut or, rather, Natalie’s.
“Thanks for the company. And for this.” I touched the delicate lei. “It’s beautiful.”
“Not to sound totally lame, but it doesn’t compare with the girl who’s wearing it.” Then he kind of groaned and laughed, both at once. “Man, that did sound lame, but it’s true.”
“Very lame,” I agreed. “And I hate to break it to you, but I think your vision’s going.”
“My vision is just fine.” His voice was husky. “Like I said, it’s perfect.” He reached over and brushed a strand of hair out of my eyes.
“Sleep well, Charley with ane-y. I don’t want you to pass out on me again tomorrow.”
“Not a chance,” I shot back.
He laughed. “Night.” Then he melted back into the darkness.
Inside the hut, Natalie was curled on the bed, smiling like Em. Moonlight seeped in, an island nightlight.
“You should have kissed him,” she declared.
“Were you listening?” I asked, collapsing onto the empty bed. Nat was worse than Em. No, she wasexactlylike Em.
“Of course I was listening. And you totally should’ve kissed him. You only live once, remember?” She smiled broadly. Hope had replaced the earlier shadow.
“Maybe,” I said. “But it seems like if Thad wanted a kiss, he would’ve kissed me. I’m not sure I’m his type.”And I’m not sure he’s mine, I thought, remembering Bart’s warning. I had no intention of being one of many.
Natalie’s jaw dropped. “Exactly what type is that? Tall and exotic? Geez, Charley, are you really that oblivious or are you fishing for compliments?” Now she looked annoyed.
“I’m definitely tall.” I reflexively tugged on my skirt. I’d always heard my looks were “unique,” which meant absolutely nothing. Unique’s one thing, exotic’s another.
Natalie stared at me. “Okay, you really are that oblivious. Look, I’ve known Thad since his Day One. You should know that he’s there for everyone, but at the same time, he’s kind of distant. He’s different with you.” Watching me, she frowned. “I’m serious, Charley. Thad’s never paid attention to any girl here. He’s been all business, until now. Untilyou.”
“Really?” I said. “That’s not the idea I got from Bart.”
Natalie snorted. “Ignore Bart. Everyone else does. Listen, just be good to Thad, okay?”
I stayed quiet.
“Is there someone back home?” she asked sharply.
“No.”
“You answered fast. Are you sure?”
