“I figured everybody’s ridden at least once.”
“I sell ice cream, Rome.”
“Fair.” I grabbed the spare helmet from the saddlebag.
Josie watched me carefully.
I settled the helmet over her head and adjusted the strap beneath her chin. My fingers brushed her jaw and her eyes lifted to mine.
“You’ll be fine.”
She smiled nervously. “I feel like you’re lying.”
“I’m not.” I tightened the strap gently. “Stay close to me.”
She nodded.
“When I lean, you lean.”
Another nod.
“Don’t fight the bike.”
“I wasn’t planning on fighting the bike.”
“Good.”
I stepped back and then pointed at her. “You’re precious cargo.”
Her expression softened. That slipped out, and I almost took it back, but I didn’t because it was true.
Josie mattered. More than she should this early, but there it was.
I swung onto the bike, but she hesitated. I gave her time. We weren’t in a rush. We would get to the party whenever we did, and that was fine with me. I was just liking being with Josie.
She finally climbed on behind me tentatively. Her hands rested lightly against my sides, and I looked down at them. Then reached back and grabbed her wrists to pull her flush against me.
Josie squeaked.
I smirked. “Hold on tight to me, baby.”
I felt her inhale, then her arms tightened around my waist.
Better. Much better.
I kicked the bike to life, and the engine rumbled beneath us.
Josie jerked, and I couldn’t help but laugh. “You okay?”
“Yep,” she squeaked.
Liar.
I could feel her death grip around me, and I liked it.
I pulled out of her driveway and headed toward Main Street.
We could’ve taken the direct route, but I didn’t.
