Page 69 of Blind Date with a #FORMERPLAYER
“Then, what the hell is holding you back?”
Shaking my head, I grumble, “I don’t know. Nothing.”
“You and I both know that something is because you don’t keep secrets like that from people you care about.”
He’s right, but I don’t want to talk about it, about him. “It’s not a secret, it’s just…” I’m afraid telling him will change everything before we even have a chance to begin and I really like him. Then again, I wouldn’t have this doubt or hesitation consuming my thoughts if it wasn’t for our father. Especially when I think about all the red flags Levi threw up when I first met him.
His gaze softens, a look of understanding settling over his features. “Don’t let dad fuck this up too.” I flinch, his aim precise. He deciphered what’s going on in my head before I did. “Dad has done enough to ruin things for us, don’t you think?” I gulp down the lump in my throat. “Tell Levi,” he insists, emphasizing each word. “Sooner rather than later.”
I nod, my heart lodging itself in my throat, my anxiety rising. “Yeah, okay, you’re right. I will.”
Sighing, he offers me a comforting smile. “You know I just want what’s best for you.”
“I know. Thanks, Gabe.”
“I’d get up to hug you, but I’m not ready to move yet. I ate way too fast and I’m so full.”
“Gee, thanks.” I laugh.
“Well, whoever made this is a damn good cook. I couldn’t seem to help myself.” He chuckles, amused by his own joke.
“He has a gigantic ego too.”
He grins. “Does it matter if it’s true?” I giggle, shaking my head in amusement. “I love you, Sis.”
“I love you too, Gabe.”
“Now, go shower,” he says tossing a pillow at me I swiftly deflect. “You really do stink.”
Laughing, I walk down the hall, mulling his words over in my head with every step. I know he’s right about talking to Levi, so I just need to do it, no matter the consequences.
Chapter 35
Layla
“I’m so happy we’re having a girls day today.” I grin, holding the glass door at the mall entrance open for Chloe.
“Me too. Now that I’m finally in Love Canyon full time, I barely ever get to see you,” Chloe complains, linking her arm through mine as we walk over the white tile floors.
“What about right now?”
“Of course, but we had to drive a few towns over to get away from everything else going on. The only place we’ve been able to spend time at together recently is at book club.”
“Guess we need more book club.” I joke and we both laugh. “I know I’ve been MIA, I’m sorry.”
“Please, don’t apologize. You have so much going on, especially with your mom, but I miss hanging out with you.”
“I miss you too, Chloe.”
“How is your mom doing?”
“Okay, I think. I’m grateful Gabe is home.”
“But he goes back in two months?”
“Yeah.” I attempt to gulp down the sudden lump in my throat.
Chloe stopes, drawing my attention. “No matter what happens, it will be okay–eventually.”
