Page 104 of Introvert

"You're in love with London."

He grunted.

"You should say something, show her what's in your heart before it's too late.Youmight always regret it if you don't."

Ryker's eyes settled on me then."I take it you've already told my brotherwhat's in your heart?"

My face must've given me away because he nodded.

"That's what I thought."

"I didn't mention love, but I'm sure he knows," I said.

"Hard to know without the words."

I hated to admit it, but he had a point. Ryker tilted his head, studying me.

"Are you waiting for him to say it first?Because I don't think Felix will.Nothing against you. We weren't raised to say stuff like that."

"No, I just…"I frowned, thinking over that last part. "What do you mean?"

"Thanks, Aurora," he said instead of answering.

I gave him a nod then mumbled, "Sure."

Strangely, I was the one who walked away feeling likeI had unfinished business. How did he do that? Rykerturnedthe tables so seamlessly with just a few words. He was wrong, of course. His situation with London was completely different than the one between Felix and me. Hardly any similarities. And yet…I couldn't totally discount his suggestion.

Also, what the what?

If I understood him correctly, Ryker seemed to be implying their family didn't say I love you.

How could that be?

My mind was whirling as I walked along the sidewalk, entering a beautiful park about half amile away. The cozy bench I found theresituated amongst the trees wascalling my name. As I sat and got comfortable, Iopened my computer.The HERS fan event should be ending soon. I knew I wouldn't have much time, but I wanted to try and update my tour diary. Between practice, concert stops,figuring out my emotional state,and making my confession to Felix, I'd gotten a little lax. But that was okay. I hada moment to myself, and I was determined to make the most of it.

I wasn't sure how much time passed.

I just kept typing until I'd emptied everything out of my brain.

When I finally sat back, the sky was approaching the twilight hour. Pink, purple, and blue hues faded into one another making everything look kind of magical.I breathed in the fresh park air and smiled at the beauty of the world.

"Thinking about me?"

Startled slightly but trying not to let it show, I turned toward the deep, familiar voice.

"When did you get here?" I asked.

"Few minutes ago." Felix gestured to my laptop. "Or were you writing about me again?"

I shut the lid—mainly because 1) I had written a good bit about him but didn't want him to see and 2) I was enjoying this a little too much—then turned to face him fully. "What makes you think it had anything to do with you?"

"You're smiling, and I'm your boyfriend. I figured there was a good chance."

"Fake boyfriend," I corrected.

"Boyfriend," he said back.

And I couldn't help the small smile that appeared on my face.

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