Page 143 of The Perfect Spiral
“Your mom is hilarious. She’s been trying to get me to take you on a date all day!”
“My mom likes to meddle a lot, in case you haven’t noticed,” I reply, sarcasm dripping from my words. I scoop up water with my hands, letting it run down my body.
“She’s also convinced that I’m the girl for Knox,” I roll my eyes, looking at the sun disappearing behind the waterline.
“She’s a mother, but I’m convinced she’s trying to fatten me up... and maybe she’s right? I can see it, so can most people but you and Kyle.”
“You won’t leave here until you’re rolling out the door—if you can even get out the damn door. Trust me. So tell me, Hendrix, do you like Hannah?” Seeing the pink on his cheeks confirms that he does indeed like her.
“So tell me, Thompson, do you like Knox?” I glare at him, splashing water in his direction. “That’s what I thought,” he smirks.
“Look, I’m asking as her best friend. I don’t want you to go there and lead her on unless you really like her. I don’t want it to turn out awkward between the three of us.”
He nods, understanding what I’m saying. “I get it. She’s a great girl, don’t get me wrong. Absolutely beautiful inside and out. I just don’t think it would work because of the distance, you know?
I like her a lot though, Alex. I just don’t want to do that to her. It isn’t fair with her still in New York and all. But maybe in the future? I could definitely see myself with her.”
His eyes are focused ahead on what little light we have left.
“I love your honesty, Hendrix. It’s my favorite thing about you. But I understand, and I think she will too. But don’t lead her to believe you’ll move across the country for her and vice versa.
I love the both of you, together or not.” I paddle over to him and hug him. He throws his arm around my shoulders and holds me to his chest.
“You can’t shake me off, sweet cheeks. You know this. You’re stuck with me for life!” His words echoed in the darkness as the last vestiges of light faded away.
“Wouldn’t have it any other way, honey.” With that, I seized the moment to push him off his board and into the water. Laughter bubbled up from within me, echoing into the night.
He resurfaced, hands gripping his board. “What was that for?” His voice was higher than usual, amusement lacing his words. He couldn’t suppress a smile, and neither could I.
“You went all sentimental on me, Hendrix.”
“What can I say, Thompson? You bring out the softie in me.” Hehoisted himself back onto his board and paddled over to me.
“Do you want to stay out here a bit longer, or should we head back in?” he asked, steadying himself by gently lapping the water around him.
“Let’s linger for five more minutes, then head back. I’ll show you your room.”
“Sounds good, sweet cheeks!”
“I flick beans,” he retorted, smirking at me. We both burst into laughter. “Ben!” I was caught off guard by his comment, covering my eyes to hide my shock. “You didn’t just say that!” He peered over at me, feigning innocence when he was anything but.
I shook my head, amused by his lack of shame. He took pride in his audacity, and that was part of what made him Ben to me. We sat on our boards, sharing a quiet moment of smiles.
The night was still, the faint chatter from my friends on the beach barely audible. Deciding to call it a night on the waves, we paddled back in to join my family and friends.
Chapter 47
I led Ben to the room he’d be occupying for the week, suggesting he turn in early. Everyone else had already retired, the day’s sun having sapped their energy.
Now, I lay in bed, one leg under the covers, the other sprawled across the width of the mattress. I was on my side, gazing out the window, sleep eluding me. I wasn’t tired, and I couldn’t figure out why.
My mind was a whirl of the day’s events—discussing wedding plans with Sam and Tyson, the surprise of Ben’s visit, introducing Hannah and Ben, having heart-to-hearts with my mom and Knox.
Finally, I decided to give in to the hunger pangs that had been gnawing at me. My stomach was practically serenading the pantry, and I wasn’t about to keep them apart any longer. It was time to indulge.
I tiptoed down the stairs, careful not to wake anyone. I was greeted by my furry best friend, Boomer, who had been brought down after dinner.
I headed for the pantry, flicking on the light and letting my eyes adjust to the sudden brightness. I grabbed a treat for Boomer and tossed it to him. He happily accepted it and trotted back to his bed.
