Page 151 of The Sidekick

“Get back on the road and get your computer.”

“Ok.” I merge back into traffic as I think about what he said.

“Once you’re done, come home. We can snuggle as much as you want.”

“Do you run hot? I need to know if I need a blanket or not.” And he better be ready to warm my toes.

“You guys are sickening, you know that?” Shade calls from the background.

A giggle bursts out of me as I pull into the parking lot.

“I’ll grab a blanket just in case,” Asher responds with a laugh.

“I’m here,” my words come out chipper, but I feel dread building.

“Good. Now go in there and cuddle Max.”

“Bonus points if you do it in front of Satan,” Shade adds. “Make that fucker sweat.”

Asher continues as if Shade isn’t there. “I think Max has earned a little love. He’s really the only one of us that has been aware of the bigger picture. I’m never doubting his instincts again.”

“I can cuddle Max?” I ask in surprise and a lot of excitement. I’ve missed Max, no matter how hard I’ve tried to deny it. And Asher is ok with it?

“Are you coming home tonight?”

“Of course.” Who wouldn’t go home if he was waiting for them?

“Then you can do whatever you want to him, angel.”

“Really?” I grin as evil thoughts run through my head. “Thank you!”

He chuckles as if he can read my mind and approves every idea. “If you have doubts about anything, I’m one phone call or text away.”

“Ok,” I smile even though he can’t see it. It’s on the tip of my tongue to say I love you. My eyes widen in panic. I hang up without saying anything else and let out a sigh of relief. Waaaay too soon. I hate it when I jump, dang it! I go overboard too fast.

I’m mentally berating myself for being a weak, needy, romantic nerd as I approach the front doors and knock. I frown as I finish the action. I could have easily gone to the side door. Have I really been so withdrawn from anything dealing with this place that I feel like a polite stranger? It’s weird, that’s for sure. I used to be so comfortable and happy here.

I’m so deep in my thoughts I startle when the door opens and Max leans out, confused.

“I know,” I shake my head with a small laugh. “I have no idea what I’m thinking.”

“Come in,” he grins and holds the door.

The lights are dim, everything still and waiting for the go-ahead to open up and draw people in. I take in all of the differences again with fresh eyes. It’s warmer and more welcoming than before. Less dingy dive and more young adult party. Suddenly, the separation from before and after is ok. The bar grew, just like I did. We both unlocked the next level.

“I’ve heard some disturbing things about you, Max,” I chew on my inner cheek to keep from smiling as his head snaps around, gracing me with his usual grumpy frown.

“Who’s talking shit?” He demands with a level of anger that’s really uncalled for.

“Asher,” I say sweetly.

His face pales as his mouth drops open.

“That fucker is supposed to be on my side!” He rants and runs a hand through his hair in agitation.

“He said you’ve been talking to him.”

“Yeah, I just… I needed someone to listen, ok?” He says defensively, shoulders tensing as the frown returns. “When did he tell you this?”

---