Page 69 of Blindly Yours

I smirk as I lean against the wall and shove my hands into my pockets. “Clearly, I know nothing.”

“Yeah, you’re a girl-dad. I expected more from you,” Rose teases.

“I’m ashamed.” I feign sorrow.

“Don’t worry, Dad,” Kara says. “Which princess would you choose?”

I open my mouth, but I pause. My answer is on the tip of my tongue, but I’m afraid to say it. It’s too obvious. Too forward.

Thankfully though, I don’t have to, because Kara’s nurse comes in with a new dose of medication. “Ok, Kara. It’s time to get some rest.” She turns the lights down and motions to Rose. “I’m afraid we’ll have to end visitor hours for now. Dad can stay, but otherwise, Kara needs to try to sleep.”

Rose stands up quickly and waves at Kara as she crosses the room. “Thanks for letting me keep you company. I hope you’re back home and feeling better really soon.”

“I’m gonna draw you a picture of Kristoff and his reindeer!”

Rose laughs as she touches the door handle. “Get some rest first, and then yes, I would love that.”

“Bye, Rose!”

Rose turns to me and smiles lightly. “I’ll, uh, see you around? Don’t worry about the thermostat for a few days. We’ll get by.”

I glance at Kara. “I’ll be right back, ok?” And then I gesture for Rose to exit into the hall as I follow her.

When I shut the door behind us and she turns around to face me, I shove my hands in my pockets again and tilt my head. “I know I keep saying it, but thank you.”

She bites her lip and drops her eyes to her feet. “I had a nice time today. Even under the circumstances. Thanks for inviting me to stay for lunch.”

Hearing her say she had a good time; it cuts deep, because if she had such a good time, why won’t she give us a chance? I don’t understand, but I nod and rub my hand on my neck. “I wasn’t sure you’d want to.”

She shrugs, still studying the floor. “Mhmm…”

Chasing this girl is like trying to catch a fly in a thimble. She was so genuine today. So carefree. Not angry and irritatingly stubborn like she was just a few days ago. Ithinkmaybe she’s having a change of heart, but it’s impossible to know for sure. If she would look at me, maybe I could figure her out. I want to hook my finger under that chin, lift it, and reveal the truth in her eyes. But I doubt even then she’d admit it.

“I think I made a mistake…” she says slowly.

Or,maybe she will.

“I was stupid,” she continues, “and I shouldn’t have said no to you so quickly.” She polishes a speck of dirt on the tile with the toe of her shoe.

“Rose,” I say gently. She’s adorable and sincere, and even though yes, she did make a mistake, I somehow have no problem forgiving her for it.

“And if you don’t want anything to do with me now, I completely understand. I probably blew it and I can accept—”

“Rose,” I say again. And this time Idohook my finger gently under her chin and lift her eyes to mine. I wait a beat, letting her register my unguarded expression. “Can I take you to dinner?”

She blinks up at me, big and blue. First, she’s confused, but relief swiftly washes over her, taking the form of the sweetest smile. “Yes,” she breathes. There’s no doubt in her voice. She means it this time.

I grin back and lower my hand. “Are you free on Thursday?”

“I usually get home by six.” She bites her lip again and stands taller as her anxiety fades away.

“I can pick you up at seven. Have you been to the new Japanese place on 2ndAvenue?” I researched this just days ago, the first time I thought she might agree to go out with me, so I’m already prepared.

She shakes her head. “No, but I’ve heard it’s good. And I love sushi.”

I lean against the wall. “It’s been years since I’ve had some.”

She mirrors my pose, leaning against the handrail next to me. “Too busy eating steak and potatoes?” she teases.

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