She hung up, strolled back over to me, slipped under the covers, and curled up against my chest.
“Don’t make a big deal about it. I’m exhausted and I’m going back to sleep.”
“I’ve never made a big deal of anything in my life.”
I felt her smile.
“Leave the lying to the professionals. You’re not good at it.”
“I’m actually very good when I try. But I’ll never try with you.”
Her smile grew. “Go back to sleep, Aus.”
“Anything for you.”
I kissed her forehead and let sleep consume me again.
26
THE VOLUNTEER
I groaned.“I’m going to kill the idiot that came up with this check-in plan.”
It was 1 p.m. already. I was still so freaking tired and it was all Austin’s fault. Stubborn bastard just wouldn’t listen to me. I was surprised when he woke up to Hemlock’s call because of how fast he passed out less than an hour before. Now I was surprised to find him wide awake and laughing.
“Sorry, that was me.”
“I hate you.”
I groaned again, rolling over to grab my phone. Shit. It was Eva. I slapped my hand over his mouth to muffle his laugh.
“Did you find him?” I asked as soon as the call connected.
“No, but I’m starting to think that’s a good thing. I think you’re right; he’s just lying low. I wish he’d call, though.”
“I’m sure he will. Once it’s safe.”
She sighed. “I hope so. He must think the worst of me. If roles were reversed I don’t think I’d call him either. I wouldn’t trust him.”
“Don’t do this to yourself, Eva. Neither one of us knows what’s going through his head right now. You can’t think like that, it will drive you crazy.”
She took a deep breath. “You’re right. I know you’re right. Sorry I’m dumping all this on you. I’m just…”
“Hey, don’t worry about it. That’s what friends are for.”
“Would it be okay if I stopped by? I just want to see your face, make sure you’re okay.”
I peeked at Austin; he nodded.
“Of course, can you give me a few hours, though? I didn’t get much sleep last night. Too worried.”
“So you don’t want me to wait until you can clear out your new boyfriend?”
I snorted. “I see you’ve been talking to Hem.”
“He called this morning hounding me for information. Imagine my surprise that my best friend didn’t tell me about her new man.”
“He doesn’t exist, it just seemed like the best way to get him to stop asking me out.”
