Page 26 of Trying Not to Need You

“No, I just told them I was going out. They didn’t ask, but I’ll tell them where I am. I don’t want them to worry about me. Is that okay?” I ask, feeling the old insecurities of making choices that my ex didn’t agree with and getting berated for them.

He laughs. “Baby, you’re never going to get any kind of objection from me for telling anyone that you’re with me. I’d prefer it, actually.”

I kick off my shoes. “I guess I’m staying.” Grabbing my phone out of my purse, I pull up my group message with my sisters. I’m excited to spend more time with him, but nervous, too, because my choices over recent years haven’t been the best.

Me: I won’t be home tonight. The snow snuck up on me, and Macklin’s insisting I don’t drive home.

Leighton: Good choice.

Ellison: Wait! You’re with Macklin? How did I miss that? What’s up with that?

Eillson: Did you all know about this? Cope said he has no idea.

Courtlynn: Make sure he wraps it before he taps it.

Me: Court!

Me: We had dinner. Talked. There is no tapping or wrapping necessary.

Courtlynn: He’s a hottie, and you could use some of that in your life after the fuddy duddy you just dropped like a hot potato.

Ellison: Focus!

Leighton: She’ll tell us when she’s ready.

Me: Thank you, Lei.

Leighton: Don’t get that twisted. I’m also curious.

Me: It’s… complicated, but I promise to give you a full rundown tomorrow.

Ellison: Do you want me to have Copeland come and get you?

Me: No. I’m not worried about the snow. Macklin is. It’s fine. I’m taking the guest room.

Courtlynn: Boo! Live a little. You’re single. He’s single. Do the damn thing!

Leighton: Whatever you do, just be safe.

Me: Just sleeping. Love you.

Ellison: Love you.

Leighton: Love you.

Courtlynn: Be adventurous. Love you!

I’m chuckling as I lock the screen on my phone. I look up to find Macklin watching me. “All set.”

“You told them you’re with me?” he asks, not even bothering to hide his grin.

“Yeah, I told them that I was with you.”

“You want ice cream now?” he asks.

“You know what? I do want ice cream.”

The grin on his face lights up the room as he reaches for my hand again, kicks off his shoes, and leads me back through the house to the kitchen. I should pull away, but his hand feels too good wrapped around mine.