Page 26 of The Perils of Pretending
“Since we’re about to part ways, is there anything else you think we need to discuss?”
I instinctively tip my phone screen away as I turn my ear to Max. I’m sure there’s more to talk about, but with the freak-out I’m having about my mixed feelings toward Max, I can’t think about anything else. “We can text if anything comes up.”
He nods. “’Kay. Good luck at the reunion. I hope your grandma lays off about Dorian and that you’re able to have fun.”
“Thanks, me too. And good luck to you as well. I hope you’re able to find things to talk about with your grandparents besides starting your own family.”
Max shrugs. “If it gets too intense, I’ll go kayaking.”
The captain comes over the speaker announcing our final descent. Silently, Max hands me another piece of gum.
“Thank you.” His small act of kindness to help my ears pop as we land is sweet and another reason why it’s a good thing we’re about to leave each other. Because dang, Max is getting on my good side.
“Any time.”
We land and wait our turn to exit the plane. Searching for Brody and Mom, I see Grandma first. She’s off to the side, clutching her purse strap in both hands.
“Sadie!” She waves us over.
Max and I walk to her. “How was the flight for you?” I ask out of politeness.
“Fine. Where’s your mom and brother? We need to get to our next gate.”
I look around but don’t see them. “They probably went to the bathroom.”
Max’s hand lands on the small of my back. Heat sparks where his palm touches me. I lean into the touch, enjoying the sensation of warmth.No, Sadie, ignore how much you like this.
Max gestures for us to go forward. “I’ll walk you to your gate and say goodbye there since I’m not in a hurry to head out.”
Grandma’s eyes jerk to Max’s. “What do you mean say goodbye? You aren’t coming to Homer?”
I shake my head. “Max is going to visit his family.”
Grandma lets out a disgusted snort. “What kind of boyfriend are you?”
And Grandma wonders why people don’t like being around her. My pulse thrums in my ears as my agitation and defensiveness spring up. “He’s a great one. His family wants to spend time with him too. Which says a lot about who he is, if he’s willing to travel to visit them just because. Isn’t that sweet of him?”
Unlike the forced stays we’re expected to endure.
“Why isn’t he joining us after? Is he worried about paying for the stay and activities?”
I fight the urge to pinch the bridge of my nose. I don’t know Max’s financial situation, but even if I did, it’s frustrating that’s the point Grandma brings up. “He’s visiting family,” I reiterate.
Grandma’s eyes narrow. Suddenly, like a flick of a light switch, Grandma gets all smiley and inviting. “You know, if it is the money you’re worried about, young man, I’ll cover all your expenses.”
Max shakes his head. “That won’t be necessary.”
“Fine. I’m going to find a cart to take me to our next flight. I’ll meet you down there.”
Good riddance. “Okay.”
Max rubs circles on my back. Heat spreads wherever he touches. I can’t decide if I should move away so I don’t get used to the feeling or stay because I’m not sure the next time I’ll get to experience this wonderful rush. I do nothing but stand there.
“I’m starting to feel bad for ditching you.”
“It’s not ditching when you never planned on coming with us.” How I’ll keep Dorian away without him is a real worry. I just hope he’s agood guy and not influenced by the Ashcombe fortune and willing to do whatever grandma tells him to.
“True.”
