Page 53 of The Ruined

Frustrated, he looks up like he’s reminding himself to count to four. “Your chariot awaits.”

I shake my head and open my laptop.

“Charlie, I don’t have time for games. Let’s go.”

I type in my login credentials like he’s not even here.

The screen opens to my plans, and I minimize my useless little project.

“What’s wrong?”

I look up with a frown. “What? Nothing.”

He cocks his head. “Something happen?”

“What could happen? I’ve been at work all day.”

He watches me for a moment. “You’re upset.”

“Yeah.” I give him a pointed look. “Can you tell?”

“No, this isn’t at me...” he decides, his eyes narrowing.

I shut my laptop. “Fine. You can drive me to your house. But only if you quit it with the questions.”

He raises his hands to concede.

I walk around the counter and his eyes fall to my feet. His brows lift in surprise when he finds me wearing the purple slippers he bought me.

Ugh. Dammit.

“Yes, I brought them. The memory foam makes it easier to walk. Don't let it go to your head," I snap.

I let him take my arm for support, and swear I see a hint of a smile as we walk out the door.

15

Pepper: Okay, not Landon. What about Devin?

There was nothing wrong with Landon.

Pepper: So Landon is a go, then? (hopeful emoji)

Stop saying it like it’s some mission. No. There is no go. Abort. Retreat.

Pepper: We can’t retreat. There is an active threat. We need to act now.

What threat?

Pepper: Almost 25 and a virgin.

Please delete these texts.

Pepper: See, it IS embarrassing. Fine. I’ll let it go if you tell me who you’re holding out for.

Jason Momoa.

Pepper: Um…have you seen Landon? He could be his brother!

---