Page 126 of Hooking Up
Chapter Nineteen
Iris
We spend the entire day together. Walker leads me through cooking bacon and eggs. It's easy. Easy enough I promise to make lunch.
He talks me into aStar Warsmarathon. One including the prequels. But it's actually fun mocking their bad dialogue and ridiculous excess of world building. It feels like it used to—likeStar Warsis something I love. Like movies and books and TV are capable of capturing every bit of my attention.
Like there are all sorts of things in the world capable of capturing my attention.
I set off the fire alarm when I attempt to pan fry chicken while sautéing frozen broccoli. Multi-tasking in the kitchen is still beyond my skill set.
We dress, get lunch, spend the day walking around Santa Monica and drinking ridiculous amounts of coffee. It's a beautiful blue day. Warm. Sunny. Bright.
The entire world feels bright.
It's like that all week.
Studying is easier. Classes are more interesting. My research project falls together. I look forward to my yoga sessions. And my attempt at healthier meals. And texting Walker all night.
When he invites me to a party at the shop—and promises to make me come after—I say yes instantly.
Even when he insists he's teaching me to surf the next day at eight a.m.
Eight a.m. on a Sunday.
Ridiculous.
But worth it.
He might actually be worth it.
* * *
The shops bell rings.
Someone yells, "Surprise."
Then everyone is yelling it together. I'm yelling it. Even though I think surprise parties are a truly terrible idea.
All the lights flick on at once.
Ryan holds his arm over his eyes like he's a vampire protecting himself from the rays of the sun.
Dean laughs. "Happy twenty-seventh." He hands Ryan a black balloon. There are black balloons and lilies everywhere.
It's funny. But ridiculous and premature. Since when is twenty-seven old?
Walker slides his arms around my waist. He pulls my body into his. Brushes his lips against my neck.
My thoughts dissolve.
"Happy Birthday." The cute blond in a pastel cardigan hands Ryan a small present wrapped in blue paper with a turquoise bow. "I hope you like it."
"Thanks, Kay." He takes the present. Looks at her like he's not sure if he should hug her or shake hands or nod. He offers his hand.
They shake.
Relief spreads over his face as he pulls his arm to his side. This guy is not into affection.
