Page 225 of Whispers of Wisteria
Brayden blinked at me. “Huh?”
“I know you’re majoring in library science,” I started, fidgeting with the hem of my nightgown. “But what do you like about it?”
“I like the research,” Brayden replied. “I helped Uncle Caleb sort through reports and records while they were searching for you. I stayed with it because I like it.”
“Oh…” My shoulders tensed. It was…
I looked at my lap, unable to meet his eyes anymore. “Thanks…” I said, and his chest stilled. “For n-not giving up on me.”
He was quiet for a second longer, but then he crumpled over me.
“Never!” he said, holding me tight against his chest. “I’d never give up on you. No matter what. Do you understand?”
I nodded. I think I was starting to.
“What else did you want to know?” he asked.
“I guess…” I began, twiddling my thumbs. “What’s your favorite food?”
He stopped petting my head, and for a minute, I thought he might laugh at me, but then he held me back and answered. “Anything with blueberries. Why?”
“Just…” My face burned. “Something I’m working on.” I stood and pulled at my gown. “Thanks—“ I said as he tilted his head. “I’m—I’m going to bed now.”
“Want me to walk you to your room?” He stood.
“It’s okay.” I shook my head. “I’m supposed to sleep with Julian tonight.”
Brayden frowned.
“Goodnight.” I stepped closer to the door. He didn’t stop me as I left.
I walked down the hallway, stopping at the bottom of the stairs, and leaned my back against the wall.
I… did it. And he didn’t make fun of me. My face was on fire as I pulled out my phone.
I might be behind now, and there was a lifetime of information to learn, but one day, I’d get there. I just had to move forward one step at a time, until maybe it’d feel like I belonged from the very start.
TO BE CONTINUED
