Page 24 of Hyde and Seek

“I’ll probably just get a new one. This one iswayold,” I lied. I had no clue how to break my brand new radio, but if he pushed this, I’d find a way. I’d rather risk electrocution than explain what I’d really been talking to myself about.

Looking around, he thankfully changed the subject. “Cute house.”

“Thanks.”

Cute was the perfect description of my house. I’d filled the small space with bright, cheerful colors and pictures. There was a plush couch in the living room in front of a big window that let in loads of sunlight. I wanted to live somewhere warm and welcoming, someplace that felt comfortable.

I’d used a huge chunk of my savings, but my dad still had to co-sign for me to buy it. It wasn’t a big house or in the best neighborhood. But it was mine and I loved it.

“Come here, babe.”

I went to him, running on autopilot and because of the whole Babe Zombie thing.

His eyes searched my face. “We good?”

“Totally.” He’d apologized and I wasn’t one to hold a grudge. “You need a ride?”

“Nah, I texted Eli. He’s already outside waiting for me. I’ll see ya, yeah?”

I nodded, walking him to the door and opening it.

I wasn’t sure if that was a blow off, and I wasn’t about to ask.

My mind’s muddled enough for one day, thank you very much.

Jake turned to face me in the doorway, opening his mouth to speak. He closed it again without saying anything. Reaching out instead, he touched my cheek briefly before dropping his hand.

With a small nod, he jogged to Eli’s waiting car.

I waved to Eli before closing the door and leaning against it. Taking a deep breath, I did the only thing I could.

I baked.

*******

I was working on frosting cake two of three for the day, when my phone beeped to indicate a text message.

Jake:Hey babe.

Me:Hey, what’s up?

Jake:You busy tonight?

Me: Yeah, why?

Jake:We’re all goin’ out. Thought you might come with.

My phone beeped again with a text from Kase.

Kase:Piper ya gotta come out with us.

Me:Sorry, honey, got plans. Maybe next time?

Jake:What plans?

Me:Huh?

Jake:You told Kase you had plans. What’re they?

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