Page 41 of The Secret We Keep
The flutters in my stomach kick into action when I’m not sure what to say. “Well, it was nice seeing you. Again,” I fluster, turning on my heels, wondering how this day—morning—turned into one of the most sociable days I’ve had in recent weeks.
“Morgan, wait.”
I turn back around to see Paddy with his hands in his pockets. “I need to apologise, for the other day I mean. I shouldn’t have tried to make you feel bad for not walking Kevin.”
“Apology accepted.”
My answer is swift, but he bites down on his bottom lip. “Yeah, but it was a dick move. I feel shitty about it.”
“Well, you just apologised so don’t worry.”
He looks up. Eyes round and genuine. “You mean that?”
I offer him a warm smile.
There’s a first time for everything. And this is the first time I haveeverseen Paddy O’Keefe looking so… so unlike Paddy O’Keefe. Always the smart one, he used to ooze confidence. Now, he’s shifting awkwardly like he’s in unchartered waters.
When he turns to go inside the shop, I’m unable to look away from him. Like I’m caught in a current, all I can do is watch the way he moves. My chest feels fluttery, and I’m trapped somewhere between wanting to be invisible to him and wanting him to see me completely.
“Paddy,” I call out, before I can register what I’m doing, my hands twisting together awkwardly.
He spins to face me, and my chest practically bursts when our eyes meet.
“I’ll do it.”
He looks at me with confusion. Eyes narrowing.
“I’ll help out with Kevin,” I explain.
He lets out what sounds like a relieved huff, then scratches the back of his head. “Mum will love that. Should I text you?”
Damn. I guess technically I do have a phone now, but I haven’t even turned the thing on. “I don’t know my number,” I answer honestly.
Paddy holds up a finger, suggesting I wait right where I am. He darts inside, the bell ringing out again. He’s only gone a few moments before he’s back, handing me a piece of paper.
“Here. You can add my number.”
“Thanks.” Suddenly, getting a phone isn’t the worst gift I could have received today. “I’ll message and let you know when I’m free.”
“Sounds good.”
I wave nervously, before turning on my heels and running back home.
With Paddy O’Keefe’s phone number in my hand.
We're not here to judge
Paddy
Unknown number: Does ten work?
Depends on who this is and what you want from me
Unknown number: It’s Morgan Brooks. You gave me your number yesterday
I know. I’m just pulling your leg, Morgs
Unknown number: Oh, I see. Hi, Paddy O’Keefe
