Page 76 of Close Knit

Juni

You’re right. I’m sorry.

I am still really excited to see you for Christmas next month.

Daphne

Me too.

I love you.

Juni

I love you too.

I close the chat with my sister and open my thread with Cameron. Tonight, he organized a low-key helicopter flight around the Thames after I mentioned how cool it would be to see the skyline in my stories last week. Hopefully something like that isn’t too difficult to cancel because tonight, I’m ready to stop playing it safe.

I want him.

Daphne

Can we cancel the helicopter plans tonight and stay in?

Goose

Good with me.

What do you have in mind?

Daphne

Movie night at my place?

Goose

See you soon.

Chapter 19

Daphne

Tonight’s the night.I’m making a move on Cameron Hastings.

I’m nervous and giddy, but so freakin’ ready. I shift on the couch beside him, his leg resting against mine. He’s sprawled out under a purple blanket, limbs everywhere, like he’s perfectly at home.

“Heading back to San Francisco for the holidays?” I lean in, hoping the highlighter on my cheekbones entices him. When he kissed me on his birthday, I swore it was because of this shimmering powder. Tonight, I’ve gone extra radiant, aiming to draw his attention to exactly where I want his kisses—all over me.

“Maybe for a few days,” he says, running a hand through his hair. “My parents go all out with this giant tree. We always decorate together, have a huge luncheon and dinner, watch movies, and play games like Who Am I? and Never Have I Ever.”

“That sounds so fun.” Cameron’s family seems so normal. I wonder what he’s like around them. Does he laugh like he laughs with me? Is that furrowed brow finally relaxed? “I’m visiting my family too before my moms go on their holiday trip. Maybe we’ll bump into each other at the St. Claridge,” I say, trying to sound casual.

“I’ll be counting down the days.”

Heart, meet somersault.

“Me too.” I grab the remote from the coffee table, which is littered with my movie snacks—gummy bears, popcorn, Maltesers—and Cameron’s healthier options—crudités, fruit, and hummus. Perhaps tonight is the night he finally caves and indulges in some real treats. I scroll through the movie options. “What are you in the mood for? I’m a sucker for a good tearjerker.”

“Why would you want to make yourself cry?”

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