Page 23 of With Us

Theo:I get the feeling I’ll be snoring on the couch in my office soon, so call if you need something.

As I had each time I’d thought about his thoughtfulness during the day, I grinned and stroked my fingertips up my thighs, loving the softness of the fabric.

Almost all my wardrobe came from thrift stores. It was a rare treat to find something still with the original tags on it. An even rarer one to find something on a clearance rack at an actual store.

The soft, newness of the fabric was usually long gone by the time I got it.

I never minded. Growing up in foster care, I got what I got. Usually that meant ill-fitting, faded, and butt ugly. It was like my birthday and Christmas all rolled into one if the clothes fit properlyandI liked the style.

A few times, I’d had clothes that I’d loved. New ones. Pretty ones with bows and frills, making me feel like a real princess.

But things would always change. Almost like being on a rollercoaster, I’d be flying high before my stomach would drop and I was plummeting back to hand-me-downs and resource center ‘gifts’ that came in paper bags with discount soap and boxes of almost expired Tuna Helper.

After the third time experiencing that jolt, I’d stopped bothering with the new clothes. It’d been easier to leave them behind if I’d never even let myself wear them.

I’d been seven when I’d learned that lesson.

The cold wind blew around me, bringing the smell of recent rain and construction, and snapping me from my memories. I pulled the hoodie tighter around me.

Me:Hi. I’m just leaving work. Did you get any rest?

Theo:Another late night for you. Yes, I slept longer than I should have.

Me:My boss just gave me the entire weekend off, and I think sleep is going to be a big part of it.

Pressing send, I hesitated for a second before quickly typing another message.

Me:Plus, seeing you, if you’re still available.

Theo:Do you think I made plans since this morning? I’m available. Does seven work?

Sleeping inwaylate and a date with Theo?

Best. Weekend. Ever.

Me:That’d be perfect.

Since Mrs. Giovanni had started complaining about people on their phones ‘lighting up the lobby like Aurora Borealis’, I put mine into my pocket as I approached my building. Punching in the passcode and easing the lobby door closed behind me, I crept to the elevator, successfully avoiding her wrath.

When I got up to my apartment, I removed my hoodie and hung it up. I was tempted to just sleep in my clothes, but I didn’t want to ruin them. I stripped before pulling on an oversized shirt. Rushing through my nighttime routine, I climbed into bed and grabbed my cell.

I plugged in my phone to charge and nearly fell asleep with my head hanging off the bed. Forcing myself awake, I turned off my alarms and checked my messages.

Theo:I’ll text you in the afternoon with the address. Get some sleep.

I smiled sleepily at the message. There was no hinting, snarky comments, or pressure to ride with him.

Me:I’m looking forward to seeing you. Good night.

I set the phone down and curled up, drifting off with Theo on my mind.

Again.

Chapter Four

Efficiently Bossy

Theo

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