“Go get in bed and I’ll make something for us,” Zander suggests.
“You’re going to go mess up my kitchen aren’t you?”
“I could just order pizza, if you want.”
“No. Mess up my kitchen. Cook for me. We’ve established I think you’re hot so this is just, like, icing on the cake.” I pause, then hum. “If you can find cake, I’d love that.”
“Do you have cake?”
I shrug. I’m a little treat girl through and through, so, yes, I do have cake in my fridge. The cake is covered in rainbow sprinkles and was frankly, too tempting. But, then again, everything at Dam Baked is too tempting.
Zander grabs hold of my hand and leads me from the attached bathroom, back into my bedroom. I lay down on top of the patchwork quilt I made out of spare fabric. Once he sees I’m not dying, he hands me my water bottle and tells me to drink, then slowly makes his way downstairs.
The first thing I do is pick up my phone. I have so many notifications, I’m surprised it hasn’t blown up.
Dad
Are you alright? Tabitha told me you felt sick and went home. Did that boy go with you?
I sigh. This should be Zander’s chance to show my dad he’s not the enemy. Somehow I doubt he’ll see it that way.
Addie
I’m fine! Zander’s taking care of me. He’s been wonderful. I wouldn’t have known what to do on my own. I’m so glad he was with us.
I get a thumbs up in response, which is wildly reassuring and comforting. I debate sending more, telling him how I’ve never felt so loved, but decide against it. He’ll probably think I’m just sick and not thinking straight. I scroll through texts from friends, people who know my dad, people I‘ve worked with and, generally, half the town. I respond to a few before going to my thread with Tabitha.
Tabitha
Text me when you can!
Tabitha
Are you okay??
Tabitha
The fact that I know you’re fine because I’m getting a play by play from your boyfriend LOL
Tabitha
Ok I am officially Team Zander. That man LITERALLY swept you off your feet. The second I went to him he was on it. And now he’s tending to your every need and making sure I know you’re good?? 10/10 no notes. Green flag, green flag, green flag
I have to hold back the grin that threatens to overtake me. I don’t want Zander walking back into the room and seeing me looking like a lovesick fool. He’d probably think I’m still overheated. But I let out a little giggle.
Addie
idk he could be lying. I could be dead
Tabitha
WTF is wrong with you??
Addie
Nothing. Or like something. I think I’m in love
Tabitha
