Page 114 of Ink and Ashes
I would love to! Want me to pick you up around noon?
I hit send, then place my phone back on the island and move around to the counter. I start by making some coffee, then open the fridge to find a plate of French toast waiting for me.
I know Colson usually just stops at Cedar Lane for breakfast on his way into work, so knowing he got up extra early to make this for me…
I could almost cry at the thoughtfulness.
I pull the plate out of the fridge and warm it up before sitting down at the island to eat, then pick up my phone to see Cassidy replied.
That would be great! See you then :)
With a smile, I dig into the best French toast I’ve ever had while I scroll my phone, taking a moment to just relax and enjoy myself. It’s been a long time since I felt this way—wanted,appreciated—and I’m going to soak in every minute while I can.
I finish eating and clean up, then make my way to my room to get ready.
Music plays quietlyin the background as I head in the direction of Marydale’s after picking Cassidy up. It’s not a far drive, and the place is practically empty when we arrive. The host leads us to a small booth by a window, and we take our seats.
“Thanks for suggesting this. I needed to get out of the house,” I say as I look at the menu.
“Of course. Figured it was time we catch up. With everything going on I feel like I’ve barely seen you.”
I smile up at her, and she smiles back.
“Speaking of leaving the house, how’s it going living with Colson?” Cass asks, and my cheeks heat.
Everyone knows I’ve been staying with Colson for a few weeks now. After everything that happened, Cassidy also offered for me to come stay with her, but I’d already moved into Colson’s by the time she found out. When I refused, I could tell she sensed something more going on between her brother and me, but no one knows exactly what that something is.
Hell, until last night, I didn’t either.
I open my mouth to tell Cass everything but stop myself just as quick. Colson and I didn’t get a chance to discuss how we’re going to tell people we’re together, and I don’t want to share that with his sister without him. Which means I also can’t tell her I’ve decided to stay in Ember Grove, because she’ll figure out the truth before I even finish speaking.
I settle on simply saying, “It’s been good.”
Cassidy hums as she cocks a brow. “Just good?”
I swallow, but mask it with a laugh. “Yes, Cass. It’s good. He’s been really helpful, and I’m grateful for his hospitality.”
She eyes me a moment longer, but thankfully doesn’t pushwhen the waitress comes by to take our orders.
“Well, good. And how are things going with the investigation?” she asks once the waitress leaves.
I frown. “I’m at a stalemate. I haven’t found anything new, and I’m not really sure where to look next.”
Cassidy’s face falls slightly. “Well, I’m sure you’ll figure it out.”
I simply nod. “What’s new with y?—”
Before I can finish, Cass interrupts with, “I’m dating Sam.”
My jaw falls open as my eyes widen. I’ve wondered if there was more to their friendship than what meets the eye, but the few times it’s come up in conversation, Cass has been adamant that there isn’t.
I smirk. “What happened to being ‘just friends?’”
A pink tinge fills her cheeks. “We’ve never been just friends. Sam has been my favourite person since I could talk, and there’s always been a romantic spark between us. I’ve tried to ignore it, but a few weeks ago, we were hanging out just the two of us, and I just…went for it. I kissed her, and it was like all the pieces were falling into place. Things make sense when we’re together.”
I smile, tears stinging the backs of my eyes. It takes everything in me not to tell her I feel the same way about her brother.
“I’m really happy for you, Cass. Sam’s great, and I know she absolutely adores you.”
