A charming smile explodes across his face. “I’m so glad I could convince you.”
I needed very little convincing. I hoped to get a ride with him the entire time. I just didn’t want him to know that.
But I think I accomplished my goal.
TWELVE
PARK
DidI cancel Lacee’s rental car reservation?
Yes, I did.
I have to keep her close to me. She’s the link to the computer chip. Plus, as a bonus, she’s kind of fun to have around.
“You’re in charge of the radio,” I say as we leave Seattle behind us.
“Well, if I’m in charge of the radio, then we’re listening to Christmas music.” Lacee flips from station to station until she finds a song she likes.
“I’m getting the feeling that you’re a big fan of Christmas music.”
“How could you tell?” She turns to me, clapping to the song as she sings. “Go tell it on the mountain. Over the hills and everywhere.”
“You look like a member of a church choir.”
“Hallelujah!” She raises her hands in the air.
I love Lacee’s enthusiasm. It’s refreshing the way she doesn’t take everything so seriously. Nothing’s life or death for her, and I envy that.
She eyes me with a smirk.
“What?” I ask.
She presses her lips together, shaking her head. “Nothing.”
“Oh, come on. You’re analyzing me like I’m a chemical in a test tube.”
“Okay, fine.” She folds her arms across her chest. “I think it’s weird you travel across the US in a suit. Do you like punishing yourself with uncomfortable clothing?”
“You’re criticizing my clothing.” My brows raise in astonishment. “You’re the one who wore snow boots on an airplane.”
She looks down at her shoes. “I like to be prepared. Besides, have you ever gotten snow in your shoes? It sucks. Talk to me in a few hours when you have to walk outside in your fancy loafers.”
“Okay.” I puff out a laugh. “Fair enough.”
“Also, you’re a constant mirror checker when you drive.”
My lips turn downward. “No, I’m not.”
Okay, Ihavebeen checking the mirrors, making sure no one is tailing us. But the fact that Lacee picked up on it is impressive. She’s observant. I mean, what did I expect from someone as smart as her? Observing chemical reactions is literally part of her job.
“Yep, you’re a compulsive mirror checker.” She kicks off her boots, tucking her legs underneath her body. “You glance in the rearview mirror and the side mirrors even when you’re not changing lanes. It’s like a nervous tic. I appreciate the safety aspect of it, but it’s getting a little weird. Even for me.”
“Are you always this honest and straightforward with people?”
“My parents say I share too much information, that I’m too much of an open book.”
“What doyouthink?”
