Page 46 of Unspoken Hearts
Dislikes: Alcohol, drugs, red onion, horror films, the colour orange, anyone calling her something associated with red, tight shoes, attention, crying, feeling like she’s in the way.
That last one controls her a little too much, and I hope she breaks out of that habit.
Before I can say anything, she’s looking around, as if making sure that we’re alone, before looking right at me. A sheen of trepidation is etched into her stunning features, making my stomach clench tightly.
“I’m not paying them any rent,” Macie murmurs, like the words are a secret.
I blink at her, my face rearing back a fraction. “What?”
Her shoulders sink inward, gaze flicking away again, as if she’s embarrassed.
“Hey,” I let out as gently as I can.
Moving closer again, our knees touch. Heat mists from her body, mixing with mine, and making my skin tingle all over. I manage to keep my focus on her and not the sensation biting at my extremities.
“You never have to be embarrassed with me.”
Biting her upper lip, Macie nods slowly, forcing her lashes together for a brief moment. “I never want to feel like my aunt. Like I’m taking advantage of people.”
My frown deepens as I realise where she’s coming from. Lucy wasn’t the best at keeping work, so she would always try scoring free leftovers from the stores in town. She also screwed over a few people.
Maybe that’s why she ran?
I clear my throat. “You’re nothing like her, Mae.”
From the few times I met Lucy, Macie’s could be more polar opposite than her aunt. She’s kind, generous, and always looks out for others. Heraunt was nothing but a fleeing coward addicted to anything she could get her hands on and expected free handouts from everyone in town.
As if we’ve hit a deep enough point, Macie exhales loudly. Looking up at me, she smiles, and honestly, I can’t tell if it’s real or forced.
I hope it’s the first one.
“Thank you,” she breathes out like she’s releasing a pent up exhale. “I’ll have to go tomorrow and start getting our things. Axel was at least grateful that I moved his skateboard out of the living room. He still thinks he might be the next Tony Hawk, even though I told him he’ll never look cool with knee pads.”
A soft laugh escapes her lips, but my glower just deepens at her attempt to close herself off again.
I hate the wedge she’s putting between us.
I wish it didn’t exist.
“I can help you move your things if you want?” I let out gently, hoping that it’ll help settle my own racing mind as well as hers.
Macie looks at me, green eyes shimmering like they’re crystalised, lips partly gently. My mouth opens to convince her when Grayson’s unfortunate timing breaks through the silence.
“Macie!”
I instinctively slide to the other side of the couch, and she tracks my movement before jumping to her feet. My brother appears through the doorway, dirty blonde hair looking damp and messy.
He gives her a small smile before staring my way. “What are you doing out here?”
“I just needed some air. You know how I like to breathe. It’s healthy.” Macie’s walls have returned, where she uses humour to protect herself.
Snorting, Grayson drapes an arm around her shoulders. “Breathing is great, I should try it some time. Come on, I want to show you the new show Laynie and I found. I reckon you’ll love it.”
Taking her inside, my eyes linger on the back door left open, inviting me to go in when I realise who the real wedge is between Macie and I. He’s someone neither of us can let go of.
Chapter thirteen
Macie
