Page 40 of Ace

“Totally. It’s a two bedroom.”

She studied him. “I mean, I love living at home…”

“No, you don’t.”

“Okay, you’re right I hate it. But I didn’t know I’d be coming home, so it’s not like I have a lot of options. But my dad…”

“You know they’ll talk.”

Her eyebrow rose.

“And I know you don’t care.” He laughed. “The only reason I’m still home is because of this short walk, right here.”

Her mouth opened. “Really?”

He stopped in the middle of the street. “Don’t look so surprised. You have to know I care for you.” Thinking of his parachute jump, he watched her until her expression changed.

“Oh, well, I…of course.” Her cheeks colored. “I care too. But that’s the problem, the caring. Maybe I’ll see if any of my friends have a couch.”

“What, no, that’s ridiculous. Stay here, then. Or sleep in a bed at my place.” His grin grew. “I have to admit I love the sound of that.”

“Oh stop. We’re a mess. You know it. We’ve tried this before.”

“I’m not trying anything. But I can like the sound of you at my place.”

Her mom called from down the street. “I’m still recording. Look back and smile.”

“I’m in. But maybe just for a few days.”

He linked her fingers with hers. “Gianna, any time you need anything, I’m here.”

Her eyes widened, and her lip quivered for just a second before she looked away.

“What is it?”

Her hand in his fell loose. She didn’t quite pull away physically, but he knew she was thinking about it.

“Talk to me.”

His parents stood on the front porch, his mom’s phone up as if she were recording.

“Smile!” She waved with her other hand.

He groaned. “Here we go.” He pasted on another smile, and hoped Gianna had done the same.

His parents met them on the driveway.

“Oh, your dress, honey, you look beautiful.” She hugged Gianna.

His dad hugged her too and shook his hand. “Thanks for coming, you two. Hopefully you can build up some more donors while you’re there and talk up Top Flight. This is business.”

“It’s not all business, Henry.” His mom’s expression was a little too dreamy.

“Well, I guess we’ll see you there?” Dex held open the car door, and Gianna hurried into his front seat.

“You sure you don’t want to join us in the limo?”

“Nope. Thanks though.”

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