Page 115 of Sporty Girls Don't Fall For Loners

“That’s okay,” I tell him. “I’m leaving with lots of riches.” I gesture at the books in our arms.

After I pay, Kade and I spend about an hour having fun in the stores. We try on different goofy hats and take many photos. I love seeing his carefree and fun side, like at the movie theater. And we also spend way too much time at the cell phone store playing with phones we’ll never own.

“I’m thirsty,” I say.

“Me, too.”

“I’m so in the mood for a slushie.”

“Do they have them at the food court?”

“Of course! Have you ever had ice cream or a milkshake from Madame Freezie?”

“I don’t think so.”

“No way. That’s a crime. We have to fix that right now.” I close my hand around his arm and pull him to Madame Freezie’s stand. “They started out here in the mall, but they became so popular they opened an ice cream shop, too. Rylee’s treated like royalty there. Whenever we go with her, we get unlimited samples.”

There’s a line, but it’s totally worth it. Kade checks out the menu to decide what to choose. I already know what I’m having.

When it’s our turn, I order a strawberry slushie with a drop of blue raspberry and grape, and Kade orders a double chocolate and pecan milkshake. We find an empty table and sit down.

“So you like slushies?” he says as he takes a sip of his milkshake. “Wow, this is really good.”

“Right? I’ve had many milkshakes from Madame Freezie, but slushies are my jam.”

“So the way to Zoey Hastings’ heart is through slushies. Good to know.”

“And chocolate,” I inform him. “Buy me chocolate and slushies and I’m yours.”

He smiles. “Noted.”

That causes my cheeks to ignite. “So, um, what about you? What’s the way to Kade Sanders’ heart?”

He ponders for a few seconds before shrugging. “I think all I want is for someone to be kind to me. To love me without any conditions.”

I nod as I suck up my slushie. “That’s probably the best answer I’ve ever heard.”

We’re quiet as we slurp our drinks.

“So how good is your slushie?” he asks.

“Have a sip.” I hand him my drink.

“Thanks.” He takes a sip, his eyes growing big. “Oh, wow. Definitely one of the best slushies I’ve ever tasted.”

“I can’t decide if I love Mikey’s or Madame Freezie’s more. Good thing I can have both.”

“Want to taste my milkshake?”

“Sure, thanks.” I suck some up and smile. “Pretty good. But slushies win hands down.”

He smiles. “Thanks for hanging out with me, Zoey. You really know how to brighten my day.”

“Of course.” I slide my hand across the table and lock my fingers through his. “Like I told you yesterday, I’m here whenever you need me.”

“Thanks. I wish I…” He shakes his head.

“What?” I ask softly.

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