Page 67 of Innocent Intentions

She yawns and I smile. She’s trying so hard to stay awake. I don’t think she just wants to finish the movie. She wants to see my reactions. She’s been watching me, sneaking glances when she thinks I don’t notice. I exaggerated a few reactions for her sake. I don’t think I’ve ever been so charmed by a person before. I want to give her the world.

By the time they leave the city, she’s asleep. I lift her effortlessly and settle her on top of me. The sigh I let out is pure relief. Finally, I can touch her again.

I let the movie play. Not because I care about it, but because I know she’ll ask me about the ending tomorrow. And I want to have an answer to make her happy.

The movie makes me think of her family. She’s close to her parents, but they’ve been traveling for months. When was the last time she saw them? Spoke to them? Their lack of cell service made keeping her here more convenient, but I bet she misses them.

She should meet my family. My mother will welcome her immediately. Hell, Mom will probably start planning our wedding before dinner’s over.

That might actually be a good idea.

By the time the credits roll I already know what I’ll tell Margot.

I enjoyed the movie. Because she does. Because anything she loves, I love.

I carry her to our bed and tuck her into my side. For a moment, I debate stripping her down. She’s been in these clothes all day, and I don’t want her uncomfortable. But I decide against it.

We’re not there yet.

But we will be soon.

Chapter 26

Margot

I wake up in our bed. On his side, of course.

I don’t even remember getting ready for bed. As a matter of fact, I don’t remember the end of the movie. Did I fall asleep?

I must have.

Does that mean Matty carried me to bed?

I don’t know how to feel about that.

Excited? Cared for? Butterflies in your stomach?

Before I can dwell, I start to get up, only to realize Matty isn’t here.

That’s… strange. He’s always here when I wake up.

Not strange, disappointing.

But before I can process that feeling, the door swings open, and in walks Matty. The rich aroma of coffee follows him, filling the air.

His easy smile relaxes his features.

“Good morning, sweetheart. I come bearing gifts.”

That’s when I notice he’s holding something blue.

My phone.

I freeze.

I figured he’d forgotten or decided against giving it back.

A real smile takes over my face. The kind I don’t have to think about.

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