The words still echo in my head as I tap on a new message from Cassandra before opening the thread I can’t seem to avoid.
Cassandra Wingrove
Just looking out for you, Ol. I’m sorry if it seems bitchy. I promise when I meet him, I’ll be nothing but kind.
Thanks, Cass.
I hold my breath and open the flood of texts waiting for a response from me. ??
Strictly Business
Josie
Earth to Olive.
Avery
She might be taking a nap.
Josie
It’s 2pm
Orlando
What’s your point?
Avery
Prime nap time, if you ask me.
I’m awake and reading everything. But I figured I didn’t need to reply considering it’s already been decided for me. Can’t get out of it, can I?
Josie
Nope. First television appearance as husband and wife. Not a chance.
Just as I thought. Now I might actually take a nap.
I don’t.
I call Avery instead.
"I was wondering how long it would be before I heard from you." His laughter vibrates through the speaker, sending a warm rush through my chest.
Who knew I could enjoy the sound of someone’s laugh so much?
"Yeah, yeah. Don’t act like you know me," I mutter, sliding under the covers to warm up.
I put the TV on for background noise while he rummages around in his kitchen. "What are you wearing—When do you want to go to Grangewood Creek?" we say in unison.
It was me trying to be flirty, and him trying to get to know my family.
An effort that, looking back, probably wasn’t going to land the way I hoped.
He laughs. "Gray sweatpants and—"
"Say nothing else. Literally nothing. I’ve got all the ammo I need from that image alone." I moan into the phone, and somewhere on his end, the sound of clinking cutlery goes silent.
