“It’s going … nowhere. I finally have a sit-down with my father tomorrow. Both of us have been too damn busy.”
“I think I’m ready to go on a date.” I look around the room and feel this change has been the catalyst.
“Oh yeah?”
“Yes.”
“Wow. So, should I worry about this?”
“I don’t know. I’m kind of desperate.”
“Desperate, huh?”
“Yes. I’m probably going to say yes to the first guy who asks me.”
He laughs. “If I come home this weekend, Tessa, would you go on a date with me?”
“Wow, that was unexpected,” I joke.
He laughs. “I know. I’ve wanted to ask you for months now. So, can I pick you up in Jade’s driveway Friday at seven?”
“No, I think you can pick me up here.”
Lucas is quiet, and then he clears his throat. “Are you serious?”
“I am.”
“Okay, like midnight. Meet you at the old tree in the back forty? Help me out here, baby, because I think you’re asking me to make this legit.”
“I think I am, too.”
“Damn.” He sighs contently.
“Okay. I have to go. I’m going to tell Harper that I am going on a date with Lucas Links Friday night.”
“Are you gonna need my social security card?”
“Why?” I ask, confused.
“Baby, I think Lucas works. No need for the Links. She knows who I am.”
“Maybe I like saying your name.”
“You don’t call me Lucas Links, baby. You call me Oh God, Luc—”
“You’re such an arrogant ass.”
“Who is an arrogant ass, Mom?” Harper walks in the room, carrying Piper.
“Uh-oh, you are so busted,” he whispers conspiratorially.
“Shut up, Lucas.”
“Is that Lucas Links?” Harper asks, and Lucas must have heard her because he laughs.
Then he whispers, “Be brave, baby.”
“He asked me on a date.” I cover the phone. I don’t know why, but I do.