Page 102 of A Very Merry Enemy
Lucas
Can I still see you?
The text sits there between us, and I stare at it for a long moment. Last night shifted something between us. Showed me that maybe, possibly, we could have a second chance if I don’t screw it up.
Holiday
You want to?
Lucas
Don’t make me beg.
Holiday
Kinda wish you would.
Lucas
Come to my place after work.
Holiday
That’s not begging.
Lucas
Oh please, Holiday. You know I don’t have to.
My heart does something stupid in my chest.
Holiday
Fine. But only because you used your manners and said please like a good boy.
Lucas
Yeah, you’re gonna think good boy. See ya at 6.
I’m still smiling when Bella appears at my side. “You’re texting him, aren’t you?”
“Maybe.”
She does a little happy dance. “Lucas and Holiday, sitting in a tree?—”
“Do not finish that sentence,” I warn.
“F-U-C-K-I-N-G!” she sings anyway.
I shake my head. “Lies. Trust me. Lucas is cockblocking himself.”
“Sounds about right.”
As we finish up and I lock the bakery, I can’t help wondering if I can have this.
The lightness I was feeling dims just a little and fear creeps back in. The doubt that’s been my constant companion since I met Dominic whispers that I’m not good enough, not strong enough, not worthy of anything good.
But then I catch my reflection in the front windows of the bakery. And I look like my old self.
