Page 91 of Beneath the Blue Moon
“Seventeen?You have a boyfriend?”
She blushes, smiling as she answers.“No.”
“Don’t give me that.I know that smile.You like someone.”
“Okay, but he doesn’t know I exist.”
“Pretty girl like you?He must be an idiot then.And youdon’t want an idiot, do you?”
“He’s not.I think he just feels sorry for me like everybodyelse.”She shrugs.
“Well, I guess we’re gonna have to do something about that.”
“You mean… you’ll help me?”
“Of course.”
Her smile widens, and her eyes light up with hope.
“Thank you!”
“Let’s exchange numbers.”
After we’ve programmed each other’s numbers in our phones, Iget an idea.I just need to get her involved in some kind of activity to keepher mind occupied.
“Come on.Help me with something in the kitchen.”
When I try to stand, I suddenly feel dizzy, and Anna grabsat me to keep me from falling.Ethan is at my side before I know it, lifting meinto his arms.How did he get over here so fast?
“Casey?”
“I’m fine, Ethan.Put me down.”
“No, you’re not.”
“I am.I guess I just stood up too quickly.”
By now, a crowd has gathered around us, expressing concern.Daddy steps forward, placing his hand on my forehead.
“What happened?”he asks.
“I’m okay, Daddy.”Ethan’s looking at me like I just broke abody part or something.“I’m fine.Anna and I have things to do, so put me down.”He finally does as I ask and I turn to everyone with a smile.“It’s fine.Heworries too much.”
The crowd disperses, and I take Anna’s hand as we walk tothe kitchen.Idofeel strange.I just can’t put my finger on it.I’vegot butterflies in my tummy, and I don’t know why.
Not two minutes later, in walks Ethan.I roll my eyes inexasperation and Anna giggles.Standing behind me, he nuzzles my neck.
“Are you sure you’re okay?”he asks.
“I’m fine.”
“You’ll let me know if you’re not?”
“Yes.I promise.”
“Good.I have something for you.”
He reaches around me, presenting a small, black velvet box.I hope it’s not more expensive jewelry; the necklace he gave me is sitting athome, probably never to be worn again.I take the box and open it as Annagiggles again.
