Mikey’s voice cuts through it, quieter now. “You moved your whole life here.”
“I did,” I whisper.
His eyes hold mine. “That’s brave.”
My chest tightens. “You think?” I admit. “I hope I didn’t make the decision too quickly.”
“No,” he retorts immediately, like the word is instinct. “You didn’t.”
I swallow. “You don’t know that.”
Mikey leans back slightly, his hand staying planted on my leg. “I know you,” he states.
The words land like a weight.
“You don’t,” I counter, but the protest is weaker than I intend.
His mouth quirks. “I know enough.”
My heartbeat is loud in my ears. The candlelight flickers between us. Outside, rain slams the windows. Inside, the air feels too warm. “Why do you keep doing that?” I ask, softer.
“Doing what?”
“Showing up.” The question slips out before I can stop it. “You keep showing up when you don’t have to.”
Mikey’s gaze drops to our hands like he’s anchoring himself there. His jaw tightens once. Then he looks back up, eyes dark in the candlelight. “Why would you think I wouldn’t?”
My breath catches.
“But to answer your question,” he continues, voice rougher now, “I didn’t like the idea of you being here alone in a storm.”
“I’m not scared,” I blurt out defensively.
Mikey’s eyes soften and he smiles easily. “Never said you were.”
The way he gives me an out, lets me save face, makes my throat tighten unexpectedly.
I laugh once, quiet and shaky. “You’re annoying.”
He blinks and it’s slow, his gaze assessing. “You like me.”
“I tolerate you,” I chide.
“Mm.” He takes a sip of his wine. “I’m growing on you.”
The storm surges again, and the house creaks faintly. The candle flames dance. My skin prickles. Mikey shifts closer, just a few inches. Not rushing. Not demanding. “Can I ask you something?” His head tilting as he openly assesses me.
I nod.
“Why do you push me away so hard?”
The question lands like a punch I wasn’t braced for. “I don’t do that,” I lie.
Mikey’s mouth twitches. “You do.”
I set my glass down carefully, buying time. “Because you’re, you,” I admit finally.
“And what is that supposed to mean?” His brow furrowing with the inquiry.
