We’ve all pointed out its irony at one point or another.
“I know. But teaching kids is different from suffering through calculus. I love working with children.”
The waiter sets our desserts down, placing two dark chocolate cherry cakes in front of Maddie and me.
I ordered them for us while she was in the bathroom.
Her eyes widen in mock exasperation. “What is your obsession with cherries?”
“You’re my obsession,” I say smoothly. “Since cherries now remind you of me, it ensures I’m always on your mind.”
A slow smile spreads across her lips, dimples carving into her cheeks. “I’m always thinking of you, Nate. No reminder needed.”
The sincerity in her voice punches me straight in the chest.
Every time Maddie lets her guard down and admits what she feels, it reminds me that this isn’t one-sided.
She takes a bite of the cake, amusement dancing in her eyes as she lowers her voice. “Yum. Tastes just like you.”
“Maddie,” I groan under my breath, inconspicuously adjusting myself.
She giggles, knowing exactly what she’s doing to me. “Your family is lovely, Nate.”
Her gaze drifts over the circular table, landing on my brothers, who are mid-argument over something unimportant, most likely.
If Mom and Dad weren’t here, I wouldn’t be surprised if they whipped out a measuring tape for a full-blown dick-measuring contest.
Harrison and Seb are inseparable like Leo and me, but their never-ending competition is exhausting for everyone forced to witness it.
Still, I see what Maddie sees.
A big, chaotic, loving family that isn’t afraid to express themselves, no matter how ridiculous it gets.
And yeah, it’s pretty damn great.
“I think so, too,” I admit. “I’m glad you came today.”
She doesn’t answer because she’s turned back to Camila, already deep in conversation, leaving me momentarily forgotten.
I frown.
What the hell?
“Hey,” Harrison murmurs, tilting his head toward the hallway leading to the kitchen. “Come with me for a second.”
I hesitate, glancing between him and Maddie. I don’t want to leave her.
“It’ll be quick, Nate.”
I sigh. “Mads.” She looks up, smiling. “I’ll be right back. My brother needs to talk to me.”
“Okay,” she says easily, then turns back to Camila, paying me no mind.
I follow Harrison, throwing one last glance over my shoulder. Maddie ducks her head, giggling at something Camila says.
“What’s up?” I ask.
Harrison studies me for a beat before smirking. “You really like her, huh?”
