Page 85 of Collide
“You’re a menace.” I laugh at Riley.
“Only for a silver fox.” She snickers.
I shake my head while pulling out my phone and shoot Alex a quick text.
Elena
Hey, we’re officially West Coast!
I wait for a moment, but he doesn’t text back right away.
He’s probably busy withwhateverit is he does.
The mystery still lingers between us.
With the rest of the day free, Riley and I head down to the beach, eager to make the most of the glorious weather. We frolic in the water, chasing seagulls, cackling until our sides hurt.
After some much-needed hydrotherapy, we head up to a beachside restaurant for refreshments.
Leaning my chin on my hands, I ask, “What’ll you have?”
Riley peruses the menu, her face kissed pink from the sun.
“Watermelon margaritas sound good. Maybe tacos?”
I smile.
“I didn’t see those on the menu, but I probably should lay off the alcohol. Don’t want to be puffy tomorrow.”
She laughs.
“I’m fine being the puffy chaperone.”
“Alright. Watermelon margaritas and tacos. Be right back,” I chirp, hopping off the stool and heading toward the bar.
I relay our order to the bartender before wandering back to our table overlooking the beach. The sun hangs low in the sky, painting everything in gold. It’s later in the afternoon, and the world feels softer, slower. I’ve never seen the sun set from this side of the world before. In Jervis Bay, it always sank behind the mountains, rising over the water instead. But here, in San Diego, the sun melts into the ocean.
My phone buzzes, interrupting the easy silence. It’s Alex.
“Hey, Riley, it’s Alex. Do you mind?” I ask, pointing to my phone.
Her eyes dance with amusement. “Babe, of course not! Answer.”
I hit the button.
“Hi.” My voice is soft, aware of Riley watching me like a hawk.
“Älskling,” Alex says, his voice warm but worn around the edges.
“I’m sorry I’m only getting back to you now. Today’s been…busy.”
“That’s okay,” I murmur.
“What days are you free this week? We should go on that second date.”
My heart flutters.
We go over our schedules and quickly realize there are really only two days we can make it work.
