Page 76 of A Dash of You

“Goodnight, Logan.” Just as his foot hits the first step I ask, “Do you mind if I turn on your TV? I’m not tired anymore.”

He pauses, darting his attention to the TV and back to me. “You want company?”

Yes.

“I don’t want to keep you up.”

He runs a hand through his unruly hair. “Honestly, I’m not tired either.”

I smile while patting the empty spot next to me. “Then bring that handsome face over here, buddy.” I blush, but whatever. He has to know he’s hot.

He stalks over to me with confidence and a lighter bounce to his step.

I turn on the TV and it goes directly to cable. “I’m sorry, but who doesn’t have streaming apps?”

He shrugs. “I’m barely home.”

Actually, he’s been home a lot lately getting to witness my embarrassing moments, then bolting and hiding, but I decide I won’t bring that up.

“In the mood for some classic comedy?” I select one of my favorites. “There’re not a lot of choices this late. It's either the classics or some cringy porn.” I laugh awkwardly because the thought of watching two people go at it on screen is enough for me to crawl on Logan’s lap and let him do whatever he pleases.

“Classics are fine,” Logan quickly says, and I mentally curse myself for bringing up porn around him.

“What do you like to watch?”

“I rarely watch TV. I had it mainly for my dad and I guess I just never got around to canceling cable.”

“I see.”

He’s wearing a pained expression at the mention of his father, and it makes me incredibly sad for him. But if anyone understands losing a parent, it’s me.

We sit in heavy silence while the sitcom plays, surrounding us with the small light casting over the room. My eyes grow heavier with each scene that plays out.

I snuggle up closer to one of his dark blue throw pillows and try not to strain my eyes too much as I glance over at him. He focuses on the two men as the laugh track goes off and there’s a hint of amusement on his face.

When I’m met with the back of my eyelids, Logan’s phone goes off, vibrating on the coffee table.

He breathes a weighted sigh. “I gotta take this. Sorry.”

I yawn first. “No problem.”

The couch moves as he rises, answering the call, all while pacing in the kitchen.

When he finishes, disappointment replaces his light expression. “Someone’s stuck on the highway. I have to go.”

I twist to see him. “That’s okay. Duty calls. I don’t expect you to babysit me all night.” I chuckle, but he’s left expressionless.

“I don’t mind you being here,” he says with a slight panic in his voice, letting me know so.

It catches me off guard. Maybe he does like spending time with me. “You’ve been super sweet letting me sleep here.” I try to rise, but Logan holds up his hand.

“I’m not kicking you out, Sora. Your place is still locked. Stay. Sleep. I’ll be back whenever I can.”

I smile. “Thank you. Your couchispretty comfy. And you’re right, it is better than the one at your shop.”

He huffs, following a quiet laugh. “So, I’ve been told.”

“How come you don’t stay there? Wouldn’t it be easier the nights you’re on call?”

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