Page 180 of Debts and Desires
“Girl,thatis what I’m going to lecture you on. You need to tell him.”
“I will. I just… not yet. When the time’s right.”
“Okay, but the longer you wait, the worse it’s gonna get.”
“I know,” I sighed again. “Anyway, I was actually calling because I need to swing by and get my stuff.” I changed the subject.
“Is this you telling me you’re moving out?”
“It is,” I laughed.
“Good, because I already started packing your stuff.”
“Were you going to kick me out?” I teased.
“No. I just knew you weren’t coming back here.”
“And if I did?”
“Cal found us a place that we have to move into immediately. I would’ve just lied and said I was packing your stuff for that.”
“What?! You guys found a house?!”
“We did. And you are more than welcome there. Always.”
After saying goodbye, I searched the drawers, finding a few of the things I had left behind. I was tired of my dress and wanted to be comfy for the ride. I was glad to see a pair of yoga pants. They weren’t tight yet, which was surprising. The shirts, however, were. I made my way over to Carter’s room, taking one of his before heading back downstairs. He was in the recliner, looking at his phone, when his eyes met mine.
Carter’s smile faltered somewhat, concern flickering in his eyes. “Is everythin’ alright?”
“Yeah,” I answered. “I just have to go get my clothes from Mia’s.”
Without missing a beat, he stood and replied, “I’ll come with you.”
“You said you had a lot of work. And I doubt you’d leave Mia’s alive,” I laughed. While Mimi was on board with Carter and me being back together, I doubted Cal would be. His smile was completely gone now, fear etched on his features.
“Don’t go…” his voice was so soft.
“Carter, I’m not leaving you. I just need to go get my stuff.”
“I’ll replace it all. Whatever you need.”
“I need my clothes.”
“We can buy ‘em,” he countered.
“I need my guitar.”
“Use mine.”
“I need my notebook.Yournotebook.”
“How do I know you’re not sayin’ that and runnin’ again?” He swallowed. I walked over to him and grabbed his face. I pulled him closer, planting a deep kiss on his lips.
“You’re gonna have to trust me. Okay?”
“Fine,” he conceded. “When will you be back?”
“Not sure. Mia already packed a bunch, so I don’t know what’s left.”
