Wes just laughs again. Silence falls between us, but it’s a peaceful one. The only sound is the occasional splash or swash as we displace the surface of the lake.
“What’s your middle name?” I ask abruptly.
Wes eyes me apprehensively. “Why?”
“I’m just curious.”
“About my middle name?” Wes smirks.
“Yes.”
“Tell me the real reason, and I’ll tell you.”
I sigh. “Most people in Glenmont insert a profanity.”
Wes grins. “I’m flattered.” I roll my eyes. “So, you’re wondering if my initials really are W.F.C.?”
I scoff. “Forget it.”
There’s a pause, then he answers. “Thomas.”
“What?”
“My middle name is Thomas.”
“Weston Thomas Cole.”
Weston cringes. “Don’t say my full name. My mom only uses it when she’s really mad about something. Not a lot of great memories there.”
I laugh. “Okay, your secret is safe with me.”
“I know,” he replies simply.
“You also know I’m a Stallion, right?” I’m only half-joking.
“Does it bother you?” Weston asks. “That I’m from Alleghany?”
It should be a ridiculous question, but somehow, it’s not.
“Not as much as it should,” I respond truthfully. “Does it bother you? That I live in Glenmont?”That I’m a Stevens?I silently add.
“Not for the reason it should,” Wes answers. I wait, but he doesn’t elaborate further. Instead, he asks me another question. “What’s your middle name?”
“Elizabeth.”
“Maeve Elizabeth Stevens?”
I chuckle. “Okay, I get it. Calling someone by their full name is weird. I feel like I’m either in trouble, or you’re about to propose to me.”
Wes snorts, and I blush.
Who mentions getting engaged on their first quasi date with a guy? Me, apparently.
“You get one,” Wes informs me.
“One what?”
“Chance to call me by my full name. I do, too.”