Page 106 of In Case You Didn't Know
What’s happening? I need details. You’re supposed to be a writer. – Autumn
I smile. I’d hate being out of the loop too.
I’ll call you later. Fill you in oneverything. Once I’m out of Mylene’s earshot. – Francie
You’d better. – Autumn
Before I put my phone away so I can go back to the hero groveling, my phone buzzes again. An unknown number.
I frown, because I hate talking to strangers. But I’m supposed to be a grown up so I answer anyway, trying not to sound too pissed off.
“Francie?”
“Asher?” I blink at his voice.
“It’s me,” he continues. “This is the only number I want you to use from now on. Just in case. Save it.”
I’m confused and sure it is reflecting on my face. “Are you okay?” I ask him. It’s not like him to sound like he’s in the middle of a heist movie.
“I’m fine. Just taking precautions after the breach.”
“For a second I thought you might have lost your phone as well as your glasses.” I smile softly, so happy to hear his voice. “You just need to misplace your wallet then you’ll have the full trifecta.”
“About the glasses,” he murmurs. “I’m going to send someone over to pick them up.”
“Oh. Okay.” I try to hide my disappointment. For some reason, having them here with me felt like he would definitely be coming back soon. And now… I don’t know. I feel disappointed, I guess.
“The driver will be at the lighthouse at five. Does that work?” he asks.
I check my watch. A couple of hours. “Yeah, that’s fine.”
There’s a pause. I try to find something to say. Of course he needs his glasses. He’s blind without them. But I still feel strange.
“Does that give you enough time?” he asks.
“To get back to the lighthouse?” I let out a soft laugh, even though I’m not feeling amused. “The island isn’t that large. I’m only at the coffee shop, so yes.”
“I mean do you have enough time to pack?”
“Pack?” I frown. “Why would I pack?”
“Because the driver’s going to pick up the glasses – and you – and bring you both to the helipad. I want to take you out. Tonight. In New York.”
I let out a breath. This time my laugh is genuine. “Are you feeling okay?” I ask him.
“Never better,” he drawls. “Can you be ready when he gets there?”
“Yes,” I squeak.
“Good. Now I’ve got to get back to work. I’ll be waiting for you.” He hangs up, and I stare at my phone for a moment.
Oh. My. God. We haven’t even been apart for a day, and he’s gone all James Bond on me.
And I’m so here for it.
ASHER
I’m waiting at the helipad for Francie to arrive when my phone vibrates. I sigh as I read the screen.
