Page 150 of Depths of Destruction
"When do you go back?" Naomi asks.
He swallows. "I'm not."
She pauses then says, "Sorry to intrude. You probably were looking for some peace and quiet."
Blaise shakes his head. "Don't be sorry. This is better than being on my own. You're not imposing on me in any way."
"No?"
"No. But I am looking for a peaceful beach day. It looks like it's a perfect day for it."
Naomi peers out the window. "Yes. It's beautiful out."
"We need to get bathing suits and some other clothes," I point out.
Naomi's face falls. "That's my fault."
"No, it's not," I lie.
"It is. Don't cover it up."
I planned on picking up a few items when we were out, but Naomi had a panic attack in the grocery store, and I managed to get through the checkout line, but we came right home.
There's a brief, uncomfortable silence.
I continue, "We can get things today. Or I can send Blaise to the store."
"Or, you could go, and I'll stay with Naomi," Blaise offers.
"No—"
Naomi points to the door. "Yeah. You go. Get a break from me. I'll stay with Blaise."
I open my mouth then shut it.
"It's okay. Blaise, you can tell me all the things about Andre he hasn't told me yet," Naomi teases.
Blaise leans back in his chair with a mischievous grin and cracks his knuckles. "Where should I start?"
"Ha! Funny!" I stare at Naomi.
"I'll be fine. Really."
"If you're sure..."
"I am."
"I think she's telling you she needs a break from you," Blaise sarcastically says.
"Wow. I'm going to get ganged up on by you two, aren't I?"
Naomi shrugs, but she's beaming, which makes me happy.
"Okay. I'll go after we're done."
We continue to eat and are almost finished when Blaise clears his throat. "You know the only way to get the President to forget about Naomi is to remove what he wants or give it to him, right?"
Goose bumps flood my arms. Chills run through my bones.
