“What are you doing? Did you get hot already?” I ask.
“No, but I can see you shivering. Since you didn’t want to share, I’ll give it to you.”
“Jack, don’t be ridiculous. Take it.”
“Jessi, I’m fine. I can grab a hoodie.”
I scoot over and wrap the blanket around both of us. “Fine. We can share.” But as I say the words, my skin sizzles, and I question whether I need the blanket at all.
I waketo the TV screensaver scrolling. Jack and I are both lying on the couch. I don’t remember moving into that position, but maybe our bodies were drawn together after we fell asleep. I try to sneak away before Jack wakes up. However, when I wiggle free, he startles and pulls me back to him.
“Stay with me a little longer,” he mumbles against my hair. “You’re warm and you smell good. Also, you have a beautiful smile. You should show it off more.”
I peer into his sleepy eyes, the smile I didn’t realize I was holding growing wider. “For the first time in a long time, I feel hopeful. I liked what you said about having a chosen family. I hope I have one like yours someday.”
He wraps his arm around me and tucks me close to his chest. “You will.”
As my eyes flutter closed again, I almost believe him.
CHAPTER 23
JESSI
Over the next few days, Jack and I find a routine. He wakes at the crack of dawn to leave for work, while I spend most of my morning scrolling college websites and jobs. In the afternoon, I make dinner before Jack gets home. We eat in front of the TV while watchingThe Sopranosor a mafia movie. Neither of us talks about the night we spent on the couch together. But that doesn’t mean I haven’t thought about it more than I probably should.
We don’t mention the idea of me getting a job at the club either. I haven’t brought it up, and Jack hasn’t said anything. Lately I’ve been wondering if I should apply to some of the positions I’ve seen advertised for fast-food places around town. At least I’d be making quick money.
On Friday, I’m stir crazy and need to get out of the house. I decide to check in person if any local cafés or smoothie shops are hiring.
I’m almost out the door when I realize I didn’t grab my keys from my house.Dammit. How did I forget them?I contemplate running back over there when my phone buzzes.
Jack
Do you have any plans tonight?
Me
Nope. You?
Jack
I usually hang out at the club on Friday nights. If you want to check it out, I could pick you up. No pressure.
Me
Sure! I would love that. What time?
Jack
Now?
Me
Okay :) See you in a bit.
I hurry upstairs, change, and fix my hair and makeup. It isn’t long before I hear Jack’s motorcycle rumble down the street. I’ve learned precisely what Jack’s bike sounds like and can tell it from others immediately.
I run out as he pulls into the garage. He parks, grabs a helmet, and hands it to me. His eyes glitter as they travel up and down my body. I changed into one of my shorter skirts, a little different from my typical plain attire. Definitely not to impress him or anything.
