Elsa: Sure!
After we agree on the time, I pocket my phone in my backpack with a smile.
Aiden can go suck it.
“You’re planning trouble, aren’t you?” Kim asks from beside me.
“Why would you say that?”
“You have this almost sadistic look in your eyes and a smirk when you do.”
“Really?”
“Uh-huh.” She laughs. “I’m teensy bit starting to regret asking you to live an adventure.”
“Did I always have this expression?” I frown.
How come I never knew about it?
“Sometimes.” She glances at me. “Are you okay?”
It’s the usual question she, Aunt, and Uncle ask.
As usual, I smile. “Why wouldn’t I be?”
“Just checking.” She grins. “You want to join me and Kir for mac and cheese?”
“I’d love to, but I’m going out with Knox.”
“You’re kidding, right?”
“No, why would I?”
“Eh, I don’t know, Ellie. Because of King? He’ll flip his shit if he hears you’re going out with Knox.”
“Knox is a friend who saved my life. Aiden should get used to it.”
She taps her fingers on the steering wheel. “You’re right. I know that, but King has no filter whatsoever. He treats you like I’ve never seen him treat anyone else.”
“And how is that?”
“Like he wants to shield you from the world. I don’t think you even notice it, but sometimes, he looks at you like he can’t breathe without you. And believe me, that’s not the King everyone knows.”
I tighten my hold on the backpack. “What are you saying, Kim?”
“All I’m saying is; if he feels this intensely towards you, he’ll react tenfold worse if you threaten him.”
“You’re my friend. You’re supposed to be on my side.”
“I am, Ellie.” She sighs. “That’s why I’m telling you not to stir King’s ugly side.”
Aunt and Uncle come home early. It’s so rare that I can’t help hugging them more than needed.
Then I find out they’re only coming to check on me before going back to
work.
I contemplate cancelling with Knox just so I can get some alone time with them and maybe have dinner together.