Page 87 of The Things That Hold Us

“Oh yeah. I remember there was one time whenhesuggested we watch it for family movie night. He’s got a huge heart.”

“I’m beginning to see that.” I say quietly, and I’m surprised she heard me.

She smiles, and hits play.

I picture Logan watching this, and wonder what his thoughts are on it.

Does he cry at the parts that I cry to?

I look around her quiet house, and find myself wishing he were here with us.

Chapter Eighteen

first date jitters

I must have dozed off, because as my eyes open, I see Sarah covered up on the couch across from me, and Logan leaning over me, gently shaking my leg.

“Hey, Charlie.” he whispers. And I sit up looking around.

“What time is it?” I ask, suddenly panicking that I slept here all night.

“It’s almost 1 in the morning.”

I swing my legs over the front of the couch, and rub my eyes. I don't even remember falling asleep.

I look around for Pudding, hoping he didn't trash her house while we slept, and find him curled up with Sarah.

Logan follows my gaze, and smiles, “He’s ok. He didn't even budge when I walked in.”

Great guard dog.

I look at Logan and see that he’s still fully dressed.

“How long have you been here?” I ask.

“I just got home. I set my food in the fridge, and saw you both asleep and the menu playing on repeat for Pride and Prejudice. Did she make you watch that?”

I think about agreeing, but part of me wants him to know that we share the same favorite movie.

“No, it was my idea.” I say, my eyes meeting his.

I watch something flash in his eyes, and his smile fades.

He stands up, and offers me his hand.

“Come on, I should get you home.” he says, and I don’t argue. It’s late, and I want my bed.

I wake Pudding up, and Sarah mumbles her goodbyes.

We walk to his truck, and like the last time, he opens my door for me, shutting it once I’m in.

Once we’re on the road, the silence is killing me. I ask him, “Did you have a good night?”

He smiles, but it's a tense smile.

“It was ok. My meeting didn't go like I planned, and then I already told the guys I’d go out with them, even though I didn't want to.”

“Why did you then?”

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