A guard knocked on the wall. I looked up. “I have to go. But – here.”
I pulled the empty lighter out of my pocket. “I found this by the fire. I thought maybe – “
Jess took it from me quietly. “Thank you. I … I appreciate it.”
Click
I heard her exhale, like she was relieved.
I nodded at the sound, hiding my smile, standing up to leave.
“Seph?”
I turned back to her. “Yeah?”
Jess watched me carefully. “You’re not so bad, I guess.”
I couldn’t help it. I actually grinned at her. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”
“I still think you’re a little weird though,” she added.
I laughed. “You too.”
Her lips twitched. “See you Seph.”
“See you Jess.”
Chapter 37
Dev
The party was already going loudly near the lake when I led Seph outside. She had been quiet but was still smiling when I saw her.
“I take it the visit went well?” I inquired.
She just grinned at me. “It was good. Thank you Dev. I want you to know – I really appreciate what you did for me back there. With the guards and the… you know. You make things… better here.”
I shifted uncomfortably. I clenched my knife in my hand. “Ok, let’s not get soppy here, Seph. It was just some chocolate.”
She laughed and it was like hearing bells pealing. I liked the sound.
No I didn’t.
Jesus Christ what’s wrong with me?
“So what now? You got a spot picked out for me and K to throw down?” she said, looking around.
“Actually yeah.”
“Of course. Lead the way.” Seph said, gesturing wildly.
I peered at her.
She looked at me, flushing.
“What?”
“You’ve certainly come out of your shell this week.”
