Page 20 of Stealing Home

“Night, Adriana.” Ty says.

“Night Ty. Get home safe.” I jest.

We all look at each other and laugh. This is definitely going to be a running joke from now on.

“Adriana.” Cole greets after Ty and Heather leave.

“Cole.” I say.

“Sorry to drop in with Ty and I’m sure Heather already did this tonight, but I just wanted to check in and make sure you were okay from earlier.” He tells me sincerely.

This man. How the hell am I supposed to resist him? Most guys wouldn’t even have a second thought to check in and here he is coming to me to make sure I’m okay.

“I appreciate that more than you know. I’m okay. No, I’m actually better than okay. I know I already said this, but thank you again. I’m happy you were there because at that moment, I really did need a friend.”

“Glad to hear that. I realized that you have my number, but I don’t have yours. Would you do me a favor and text me so I can save your number? I would have texted instead of showing up on your doorstep with my brother. That is, only if you’re comfortable.” Cole nervously says.

“Good idea. I’ll shoot you a text when I grab my phone from the living room. Thank you for checking in too. It means more than you know.” touching his arm so he knows I mean it.

“Anytime. Alright, I’m headed home. It’s nice to just be able to walk home.” he muses.

“You’re staying at your house?” I ask him.

“Yeah, I started moving stuff in and I had my new furniture delivered yesterday. I’ll officially be moved in next week once we get back from our road trip.” he lets me know.

“That’s exciting. Well, if I can help with anything, let me know. I’m sure the boss lady has offered already.” I offer.

“She has, but it’s nice to hear you say it too. Do you need another hug before I go?” Cole asks with what sounds like hope in his voice.

“If you’re offering.” I respond with a grin.

“Yeah, I’m offering. Get in here.” he says and opens his arms for me.

Cole’s hugs are filled with warmth and safety. The combination makes my insides go all gooey.

“Good night Adriana.” He says, and he lets go of me.

“Night Cole.” I tell him just above a whisper.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Cole

Leaving Adriana’s, I walk down the stairs to make my way home with a smile on my face when the back door of my brother’s house opens. Heather appears in the doorway, crooking her finger for me to come to the house.

Oh lord, here we go.

I walk over into the house, closing the door behind me. Ty is standing next to Heather with his arm around her shoulder and a huge ass grin on his face like he knows something I don’t.

“What’s up?” I ask the two of them.

“Don’t what’s up me! What was that about?” Heather throws her sass at me.

“I just wanted to make sure she was okay from earlier. Is that a crime now?” I ask her.

“No, but you could have just asked Ty or myself. But, no you wanted to see her, didn’t you?”she pushes.

“Sis, I was here hanging with my brother when you texted him. I just went along for the ride.” I insist.

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