Page 95 of His North Star
As if that would help. Ugh, why couldn’t Charlie let things be? “I do. But what happens when your guy friends are over and they want to hang out without me? Or when you get another girlfriend?”
He shook his head. “That’s—“
I cut him off, putting up my hand in astopmotion. “I’m not saying I need you to be there for me every minute we’re not working. I’m not that desperate. And it’s not fair to you. I’ll be fine.”
The light turned green, and Ty picked up speed as we flew down the highway. Green and gray blurred in my peripheral vision. My gaze stayed steady on Ty, whose jaw was clenched, brow furrowed.
He finally spoke. “You’re one of the strongest people I know. And yes, I do like spending time with my other friends, but guess what?”
“What?” I humored him.
“If given a choice between you or them, I’d choose you. Every time.” He quickly glanced my way before turning his eyes back to the road.
I shook my head. “You shouldn’t have to.”
“You’re looking at this all wrong. Iwantto. You’re my best friend. I’d do anything for you.”
Warmth flooded my chest.He wants me.“I’d do anything for you too.”
He smiled. “Now that we have that settled, how about some car karaoke?”
I turned the volume up, letting Blake Shelton’s deep croon lead us. Ty knew more lyrics than I did. I unabashedly gazed at his strong jaw, admiring his voice, kindness, loyalty, and friendship. When a man sang as well as Ty, fangirling was expected.
When we reached Going to the Sun Road inside Glacier National Park, Ty rolled the windows down. The aroma of trees and damp earth whipped around us. I leaned my head against the headrest, savoring the mountain peaks caressing the clouds, the birds singing, the wind rushing past us, and the roar of the river. It was a moment when everything was right in the world. When happiness cast its golden glow. I glanced at Ty and grinned. I would remember this picture-perfect memory for a long time. And maybe not every detail. Those would fade over time. But the feelingsof peace, safety, and happiness would always stay with me.
“Why are you smiling at me like that?” he asked with his lips pulled up on one side.
“I’m happy.”
“My new goal is to see that smile”—he pointed at my lips—“the rest of the trip.”
“It shouldn’t be hard, considering it’s only tonight and tomorrow.”
“That doesn’t matter. It’s been so long since I’ve seen it. I’m just relieved you still know how.”
Hey, now. “I’ve smiled lots lately.”
“Your fake one.”
I never could fool Ty. “I don’t have a fake one.”
He laughed. “You absolutely do.”
“Don’t ruin this moment.”
“I’m not.”
“You are,” I insisted.
He paused. “Maren?”
“What?”
“I love that smile.”
I bit the inside of my cheek in a poor attempt to keep the smile from coming back. I failed.
“Well, it’s clean. I’ll give it that.” I looked around our hotel room. When we pulled up, the lodge shouted its charm. Pots of flowers hung every few feet. The grounds were well-kept. Inside? Totally different story.
