Page 25 of Born to Make You Smile

I could faintly see the orange tube. I tried reaching for it, but it was no use.

Gavin groaned. “What happened? What did you drop?”

“My lip balm. My favorite one,” I whined with a pout.

“Not to worry,” Gavin said, peering over. “I’ll fish it out for you tomorrow.”

I retrieved my phone from my purse and glanced down. There were several texts from Dorina, three missed calls, and a message from Ethan.

Ethan:Grace. I’m so sorry. Where are you?

“Piece of shit,” I said with a scoff.

“What’s the matter?”

“It’s Ethan.” I scoffed again. “I'm so disappointed and angry with the way he acted tonight.”

Gavin briefly turned to look at me, a darker expression in his eyes, then he shifted his attention back to the road. “What did he do?”

I sighed. “He was drinking. And he was pushing me to do things I really wasn't comfortable with. I told him I wasn’t ready, but he wouldn’t let up…”

“That wanker! Did he force himself on you?” His tone was heated and raw. “So help me God. Did he hurt you?”

“No. Gavin, I’m fine,” I assured.

“I’ve hit a man before, and I won’t hesitate to do it again.”

A tingle of surprise ran through me as I imagined Gavin having any streak of violence. “Youhit a man?”

“It’s a long story, but my roommate in university, Randy, stole my girlfriend Pamela from under my nose. Things got heated, and I socked him. Quite hard. Not my proudest moment, but he deserved it. You sure you’re all right?” he asked, his brows drawn.

“Yes. I handled it. But Ethan and I are done. I never want to see him again. I can’t believe I fell for his stupid charm.”

“Good riddance. You know, I had a feeling about him. He was too polite. Too good looking.Too bloody tall.”

I barked out a laugh. Even after such a terrible situation, Gavin knew how to bring a smile to my face.

***

“Thanks for the ride,” I said as we pulled into my driveway.

“I’m just glad you’re home safe. God forbid anything were to happen to you.”

“Ahh, yes—being your partner in crime. Gotta keep the G-Force alive!”

I rocked my knuckles into his arm. His surprisingly strong and sturdy arm.

He hummed. “Well, not only that. You’re important to me. A very special part of my life.”

I glanced over at him and found his expression serious.

What did he mean by that?

He continued, “I consider you a friend to me. A very good friend.”

I smiled, relieved that he was referring to our friendship. At least I think I was relieved. Why did a part of me want us to be more?

He adjusted the collar of his buttoned-up polo shirt.

---