Page 62

Eli: Sure. But I want something in return.

Of course he does. I should’ve known that all my free babysitting hours were used.

Eli: You pay for the next five meals we have together.

Ollie: Absolutely not

Eli: Then I’m canceling.

Ollie: Fine, you win. See you at 5:45, asshole.

Eli: Love you too.

I set the phone down and stare out from the kitchen window, nerves filling every cell in my body. This shouldn’t feel like such a big deal. A few hours away from baby duty is what we both need.

The truth is, my hesitation isn’t about that. It’s about being alone with Peyton outside of the apartment and our everyday life. And I hate myself for wanting the time away so much. Because I’m trying to be the guy who does things the right way and doesn’t blur lines. It’s just getting harder and harder every passing day.

Peyton appears in the doorway, paint flecks on her hands and cheek. “You okay? You’re making your serious face again.”

“I don’t have a serious face.”

“You absolutely do.” She makes a face at Tilly. “Hi, Tills.” Then her gaze flicks back to me. “What’s going on?”

I clear my throat. “Eli’s coming to babysit tonight, so we can go to the record shop.”

“And dinner. You promised me both.”

“And dinner,” I confirm, trying to sound casual when my pulse is sprinting again.

She smiles wider. “I’m excited to finally visit the place that brings you so much joy.”

“Good,” I say, then glance away before she can read too much on my face. “Don’t get too dressed up; we’re digging through crates. You’ll get dusty.”

“Damn, I was planning on wearing a ball gown.”

“Next time.” I say with a laugh. “We have two hours until Eli gets here. I’ll shower now, then the bathroom is all yours.”

“Deal.”

I turn around, but stop. “Hey,” I start, glancing back.

She meets my eyes and bites her lower lip. “Yeah?”

“Thanks for wanting to go.”

Her expression softens. “Of course I want to go. It matters to you.”

I nod once and slip into the bathroom, shutting the door with a careful click. Bracing my hands on the sink, I stare at my reflection and tell myself, tonight is only about us visiting the record shop and dinner after. Nothing else. Remember that and you’ll be golden.

Eli arrives at 5:45 on the dot, dressed in a crisp button-up and slacks. “I brought reinforcements,” he says, holding up a tote bag.

“What is that?” Peyton asks.

“Snacks for me, some trendy pacifiers that Rose got the other day and a unicorn that plays music when you press the belly.”

“That’s adorable. Tilly will love it.”

I look at my best friend, shaking my head. “If you and Rose bring us stuff every time you visit, we’ll need a bigger apartment for all the junk.”