Page 39 of All That Glitters
“Okay.”
“What did you tell Hale?”
“That I left my phone behind so I can’t stay for long.”
“He’s more protective of you now.”
“I think it’s more that he doesn’t trust you.”
“He’s smart not to.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
This tense back and forth with Helen was strange. It wasn’t us and I didn’t like it. I didn’t know which of us was changing faster. She knew I wasn’t the same person and maybe that was what she reacted to.
She’d always been smart. She’d always been quick on the uptake and I wondered if she realized just how dangerous the game between us was now.
“Your parents weren’t at dinner tonight.”
“No. They’re still on vacation. They’ll be here on race day. They’ll fly in before the start.”
“Where are they this year?”
“They’re in Australia.”
Her tone became increasingly annoyed, her posture rigid, her eyes wary. I probably didn’t have much longer for small talk. It had been more for my benefit than hers. I hadn’t been trying to lull her into being comfortable with me, but I had been putting off the inevitable because once I got into it, there would be no turning back.
“Are you going to tell me what it is you want from me?”
“Of course.” But moments passed without me saying another word.
“I’m listening.”
“I need help.”
“You’ve said as much, but you haven’t told me why or with what.”
“Getting into a car.”
“You open the door and put one leg then the other inside. You’re welcome.” She turned to leave.
“That’s not what I meant.”
She stopped halfway to the door and sighed. “I don’t want to play your games, Ashton.”
“This isn’t a game, Helen. I… I can’t. I can’t get into a car. Not behind the wheel.”
“What?”
She faced me again, curiosity and concern marring her delicate features. I didn’t like anyone looking at me with concern, or pity, or sadness, or anything other than jaw-dropping awe or panty melting lust.
“I don’t need you to feel sorry for me.”
“What do you want me to feel?”
That was a loaded question and one that I didn’t think she wanted answered.
“Willing. You know I don’t ask for help. Ever. So, this is… I wouldn’t ask if it wasn’t important.”
