Her mouth falls open. Unshed tears shine in her eyes, but before I can move, she’s in my arms, wrapping herself in me.
I chuckle, holding her close.
“I take it you like this game?”
She pulls back. “I don’t know what to say,” she whispers. “Thank you, Eighty-Seven. I’ll remember this forever.”
“Me too, Bookworm,” I whisper, letting my chin drop to her head. “Me too.”
I let go of her and pull my phone out of my pocket. “Okay, are you clear on the rules before I start your five-minute countdown?” I ask her.
She snaps the hair tie off her wrist and collects her hair in her hands, securing it into a messy bun on top of her head.
That hairstyle should be fucking illegal.
“I see we mean business,” I say, grinning.
“I’m ready.”
“Okay, Bookworm. Your browsing time starts…now,” I say, hitting the button on my phone to start the clock. I click the side button immediately after. It opens up my camera, and I snap a picture of her wild expression before she squeals in delight and darts off, a rocket disappearing behind the stacks.
I catch myself staring at her for a moment too long—her excitement, the way she moves, the brightness in her eyes. I’m seeing a whole new side of her.
I like this side. A lot.
My phone vibrates in my hand, and the banner for the group chat appears.
WE’RE THE TORNADOES, BITCHES!
Austin: Heading to the Donut Truck downtown if anyone wants in?
Rudy: Hells to the yeah! Pick me up in ten? I call shotgun.
Austin: Fine, but no disrespecting Sally.
Oliver: Sally?
Austin: My car is called Sally, so you better keep your feet off my dash.
Austin: My nephew is suddenly obsessed with the Cars franchise. Henry’s declared my car is now Sally because they’re both blue.
Oliver: Aww.
Rudy: Heartwarming.
Hayes: Cute.
Me: Adorable.
Austin: Yep, the little rugrat has me wrapped around his finger. So, does anyone else need me to pick them up?
Oliver: Count me in.
Hayes: Can’t tonight.
Me: Hanging with Erin.
Oliver: Ah, yes, the book thing Valerie helped you plan.
