Page 159 of Ice Darling

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Renthrow:Sorry if this is heavy.

Me:No need to apologize. I’m glad you felt comfortable enough to tell me.

Glad is an understatement. I feel like an important part of Renthrow’s life. Not because of what I can do for Gordie or because of how tough I am or even because I’m a Davenport. But because it’sme.It feels like he wouldn’t share this with anyonebutme.

Renthrow:Honestly,I had a hard conversation with Max and I’m leading a session in ten minutes, but I just wanted to talk to you.

My heart skips a beat. Renthrow kissed me on my bike yesterday, and we could have very well left it there without goingany deeper. There are plenty of sparks between us, enough to burn for a long time.

But this conversation is beyond mere attraction.

It speaks of trust.

Of a deepening relationship.

Of inviting me into his world, his troubles, his thoughts.

I’m touched and honored.

While I stand there, dazed, with a smile on my face, another text comes in.

Renthrow:I wanted to talk to you the moment I woke up this morning, actually. I’ve just held it in until now.

My heart turns over like a car with a freshly repaired engine, and I feel the biggest, cheesiest grin blow up on my face.

Me:You should have called this morning.

Renthrow:Are you a morning person?

Me:I’m a monster before nine o’clock. It takes three cups of coffee before I’m human.

Renthrow:I should be scared, but I’m actually curious to see it myself.

Me:Play your cards right and maybe you will.

I glance over my shoulder at where Rebel and April are working on their own cars. Neither of my bosses pays me any mind.

Rather than text back and forth, I call Renthrow.

He answers immediately. “Hey.” His voice is warm and rich and deep.

I twirl a finger around my hair as I respond, “Hey.”

There’s a contented pause, and then he rumbles, “Hey.”

I laugh and duck my head.

Renthrow laughs too. “Should I start again?”

“Let’s go from the top. I’ll do the first ‘hey’ this time.”

“I can’t tell if you’re serious or not.”

“Of course, I’m joking.” I grin.

“You sound happy.”

“It’s after nine o’clock.”

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