Page 84 of Missed Notes (Rixon High 5)

Because if I gave in, it would consume me whole.

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“Hi,”Cole greeted me at his car.

I’d spied him from the window heading up the driveway to the house, so I hurried out and intercepted him. Aaron had taken off earlier to go see Poppy, but Mom and Dad were home and I wanted to avoid any more awkward chats.

“Hi.”

He looped his arm around my waist and drew me close, pressing a chaste kiss to my lips. “I missed you.”

“Cole, I saw you yesterday.”

“I know. But being stuck at home with my mom and dad isn’t exactly my idea of a good time.”

“Poor baby.” I teased, bopping his nose. “Where are we going?”

“You’ll see. Come on.” He opened the passenger door and I climbed in, waiting for him to get in on his side.

“Will you tell me about them? Your parents, I mean.”

I’d known Cole for years, and yet, he never talked about them. I’d gleaned bits and pieces from Aaron, but Cole kept his cards close to his chest.

Something we had in common.

“There’s not much to tell. My dad is a conceited judgmental asshole, and my mom is a total doormat.”

“I’m sure that’s not true.”

He arched his brow, a grim smile tugging at his mouth. “I wish it wasn’t.”

“They never come to watch you play football.”

It was an observation, not a question.

“Nope. Dad doesn’t care, and Mom… it’s complicated.”

“He wouldn’t like it if she supported you?”

“Not where football or music is concerned, no.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” He shrugged. “I’m used to it. Curtis Kandon isn’t going to win any father of the year awards anytime soon, and I made my peace with that a long time ago. Did you talk to Aaron this morning?” he changed the subject.

“Yup. It was awkward.”

“Yeah, he didn’t reply to my text. But he’ll come around.”

“I hope so. I’m not sure I can handle him freezing me out. Not when… you know.”

Cole reached out and took my hand in his, squeezing gently. “He’ll come around. If he doesn’t, I’ll make him.”

His eyes found mine, twinkling with intensity.

“What?” I asked.

“You look beautiful, Sofia.”

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