Page 18 of Force of Nature

“Your dad gave me an old one he had in the garage. It isn’t much but it works and has a DVD player which is all you need, right?”

“It is. But I don’t see the point in squeezing into that tiny camper when we have the whole house to ourselves.”

“Your parents will likely be home soon and I like to stay out of their space as much as possible.”

“They aren’t going to care if we watch a movie.”

“I know. But it’s about me, not them. Those are my terms.”

“Alright then. I accept your terms,” I concede, a little more excited than I should be about being cramped in that tiny camper with him for the next two hours.

“Aren’t you going to finish your sandwich?” he asks as I stand.

“I’m not really hungry,” I say, pushing in my chair.

“Then why did you make yourself a sandwich?” he asks, popping the last bite of his into his mouth.

“Truthfully, I don’t know.” I shrug, smiling when he gives me a bewildered look. “Stop looking at me like that.”

“Like what?” He smirks.

“Like you’re trying to figure out if I’m really an alien in human form.”

“Maybe that’s exactly what I’m trying to figure out.”

“Ha. Ha.” I mock, dropping my paper plate full of food into the trash can. “I’m going to go get the movie. Stay put.”

“Yes, ma’am.” His smile widens.

Shaking my head, not able to contain my own smile, I quickly exit the room, feeling Thad’s eyes follow me until I round the corner and disappear down the hall.

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