Page 106 of A Little Jaded

“Yeah, of course I do. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have invited you.”

“You sure?” I ask.

“You’re important to me, Storm. They’ll love you.”

“Then, no,” I answer. “I don’t think it’s a bad idea.”

“You sure?” he asks, throwing my own words back at me.

Am I sure?

My brows crease before I smile back at Ev. It’s small and weak, but I cling to it nonetheless. “Yeah. It’s actually…really sweet of you,” I decide. “Wanting me to meet your family.”

“I can be sweet.” He kisses my cheek, and I close my eyes, savoring the feel of his lips against my skin.

“You can be very sweet,” I agree.

He kisses my cheek again, this time closer to my lips. “I want you there.”

With a slow nod, I give in. “I wouldn’t miss it.”

“That’s my girl.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE

RAINE

I’m nervous. It feels like a thousand bees are buzzing around in my stomach, and I can’t figure out if or when they’ll sting. Finley’s gone. Apparently, she bought a plane ticket and flew out to see Drew last night and, therefore, wound up ditching me with her parents in the process.

It’s fine. I understand she needs to put out a few fires in the relationship department, but I could’ve definitely used her as a buffer right about now.

I also probably should’ve rethought my first time meeting Everett’s parents with the added distraction of being in the same vicinity as Drake, but it’s too late now.

Shoulda, woulda, coulda, Raine.

Everett offered to talk with his coach and explain the situation so he could drive me to the rink. I declined, not wanting to rock the boat after already being the reason behind why he missed the last few games. Grudgingly, Everett agreed, then suggested I catch a ride with his parents to the game. The idea of being stuck in a car with them for an hour or so felt pretty miserable, so we compromised. Idrove his car, promising I wouldn’t get out of it until his parents could walk me in.

Did it make me feel a little bit like a child? Yes. Did I appreciate Everett’s thoughtfulness, especially after being jumped the last time he was in Cedar Springs? Also, yes.

Although now that I’m here, I’m seriously second-guessing my decision to drive alone instead of taking Everett up on his offer to call in a favor with his coach. I don’t want to be here. This place holds too many memories. Too many experiences I wish I could erase. Facing them with Everett is one thing. Facing them alone, or better yet, with Everett’s parents as witnesses? Yeah. It feels even more unbearable.

But so does hiding away in Everett’s cabin instead of moving forward. Moving on. Even if this feels like trudging up a snow-covered hill barefoot. Sometimes numb. Sometimes painful. It’s better than being paralyzed with fear.

Breathe, I remind myself.You’re here for Everett, not Drake.

When my phone buzzes in the cupholder, I flinch, then pick it up to read the message.

555.236.0595

Hey, Raine! Everett gave me your number. This is his mom, Kate. We’re so excited to meet you! We just turned into the parking lot. Where are you?

Me

East side. Fourth row back. Do you want to meet at the entrance?

Mrs. Taylor

No worries. We’ll come to you.

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