Page 81 of Third Time Lucky

‘Hey, I’ll have you know deep down I’m a sensitive soul,’ Aaron protests, putting a hand over his heart with mock hurt. ‘Just because I appreciate the physical connection doesn’t mean I don’t have a romantic bone in my body.’

‘Alright, Mr Sensitive Soul, I’m not denying your romantic bone. Relax.’

‘Funny,’ he says. ‘So, what’s your next move? You gonna ask to see her bra next?’

I burst out laughing. In middle school, my friends had seen bras, even boobs, but I hadn’t. One day, I just asked a girl to see her bra, and without question, she lifted her shirt to reveal a purple one. I’d forgotten I’d told him that story. I can’t go the middle school route.

‘No, I’m not. Honestly, I’m not really sure where it goes from here. All we’ve really established is that we like one another and that we’re both catching feelings. But that’s it.’

‘Catching feelings makes it sound like a disease,’ he says. ‘Maybe ask her out on a proper date and stop tagging along with Madi and me. Your awkwardness is a mood killer.’

‘Yet you continue to perform in the most public of places,’ I retort sarcastically. ‘But you’re right, a real date would be a good start.’ I nod slowly, considering his advice. ‘What if?—’

He shakes his head. ‘No. Life is too damn short for “what ifs,”’ he says. ‘I’m right – now stop being a pussy and take the chance. We both know you want to.’

How eloquently said. I guess there’s nothing more to consider. Mainly because my heart is ready to dive off this cliff. But my head is worried it might be to my death. It’s a battle between my desires and doubts, and I’m unsure which side will win, but I’m rooting for the part that ends up with Lucy.

24

LUCY

Have you ever thought about cloud nine and what it might feel like? Well, I think I’m there and it’s fantastical. Glitter blows in the wind as the sun warms you and everything is light, breezy and hopeful. Pretty sure this is my first time here ever.

Tonight, Ash made tandoori chicken sliders, and I ate three. Yep. There’s no shame; I should have worn the leggings.

Now, Mitzi has retired to her room to continue her show, leaving just Asher and me in the kitchen while he preps for tomorrow. The smell of food fills the space, but it’s the lingering taste of our first kiss that I crave the most.

We haven’t talked about it, but I see it in his eyes every time he looks my way. I wouldn’t doubt that he’s noticed I’ve touched up my lips three times since he got here with my La Mer lip volumizer. Am I begging for another? Maybe.

He’s got me slicing vegetables again, but the tension between us, is like a live wire crackling in the air. As he reaches across me to grab a knife, the brief brush of his arm sends a shiver through me. I can feel his eyes on me, burning into my skin, making me feel exposed and vulnerable in the most delicious way possible. Each moment stretches taut like a rubber band on the verge of snapping.

‘Go on a date with me,’ he says suddenly, setting his knife on the island with a clatter. ‘Just me, no Aaron or Madi, no Mitzi or Brandon, just us.’

I glance up at him, my heart pounding in my chest. His intense gaze searches mine for any hint of hesitation. With a shaky breath, I nod slowly, a rush of excitement and nerves flooding through me.

Please, Luce, don’t cut off your finger right now. I slow my chopping just to be safe.

‘OK,’ I reply. ‘Just us. I’d like that.’

‘I’ll plan everything,’ he says, the corners of his lips curling into a satisfied smile.

‘Text me the details,’ I say, mirroring his expression.

Even the idea of being alone with him again is like being suspended in a cloud of bubbles, maybe it’s cloud ten? I dunno. But each one pops with a burst of sparkling excitement as my heart flutters like a hummingbird’s wings. My vision blurs with happiness, making the whole kitchen seem brighter – because of him. Why can’t I stop smiling? God, my face is probably lit up like a carnival ride. An actual date with Asher Wright. I’ve never been more excited for anything in my entire life.

* * *

‘He asked you on a date? Just the two of you?’ Madi’s voice is enthusiastic, making it clear how excited she is about this news.

As soon as Ash left, I had to call someone and tell them before I burst. I’ll never be able to sleep tonight. A smile is plastered on my face, and it’s so ridiculous I’m avoiding looking at the small video of myself in the corner of the screen.

Suppress the giggle bubbling inside you, Lucy. You’re not fifteen. Just answer the question.

I inhale deeply, trying to calm my nerves.

‘Just us,’ I confirm, a wave of anticipation in my stomach.

Madi’s eyes sparkle with curiosity as she leans in toward her phone. ‘What are your thoughts on that?’

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