Page 13 of Unspoken Hearts
My face rears back a little as my brother stares at me. “I am friendly.” I argue curtly.
His eyebrow rises, making me groan.
Running my calloused hand through my hair, we step up to the bartender, ordering our drinks and snacks.
We can’t come here andnotget the potato wedges.That would just be criminal.
Paisley, the bartender, who was in Cole’s year at school, gives us a warm smile that I’ve only ever seen her with when she’s working. “That’s all, boys?”
“Yeah, thanks.” I say huskily, my mouth twitching politely.
Handing her cash, Grayson returns to the table before me.
Shoving the change in my jeans, I follow him back with our number. The booth is designed for four people, five is a stretch. Six is near impossible with our size.
Awkwardly, I grab a wooden chair from a nearby table and sit at the end.
I hate sitting on the uncomfortable chair, but at least I get to face Macie.
She looks really pretty in her floral summer dress, copper hair tied in a loose bun, rosy cheeks, tanned freckles and wide emerald eyes shining right into mine.
I blink quickly, realising that she’s looking at me again, before staring down at my hands laced together on the table.
A stirring sensation begins in my gut again as Cole, Laynie and Grayson discuss the latest movie that’s just released.
“We should see it next weekend. They’re playing it in Hollow Grove.” Laynie suggests, tapping Grayson on the arm, who looks down at her phone screen.
Holden nods slightly, rubbing his stubbled face. “I think Sawyer is coming home for the weekend.”
“Sawyer is visiting?” Macie asks, perking up a little, keeping her focus trained on my brother.
I feel my fingers tightening, jaw ticking.
Holden just nods to her.
“He hasn’t been back for a month.” Cole adds, gripping Holden’s shoulder and shaking it. “Bet you miss your twin.”
Holden scoffs lightly, “Hardly. Nine months in the womb was more than enough.” He grumbles out, and I crack a smile at how broody he is.
“We all know you miss him, Oldy,” snickers Grayson from across the table, copping a scowl.
“Twins don’t have to be attached all the time,” groans Holden, glancing my way for help.
I dip my chin before suggesting, “What about Saturday night? I’m sure Mum and Dad won’t mind taking Aspen if we want to go watch it.”
“It’s kid friend—ow.” Grayson sputters before rubbing his leg beneath the table.
“She’s not old enough. You know the rules.” Holden exhales before running a hand down his face. “This is why you can’t be trusted with my daughter. Only Reid can, because he’s the only mature one out of you lot.”
“I’m mature.” Cole snaps defensively.
Laynie just reaches across the table, holding his hand gently. “Oh, no, sweetie. You really aren’t.” Giving him a pinched expression.
“I’m more mature than you.” Grayson adds, making Laynie roll her eyes.
Macie giggles.
The sound is like music to my ears, speeding up my already racing heart rate.
