"I don't know what you're talking about."
Tolliver's voice lowered to a whisper. "Is it your dad? I know he keeps checking on us, but we're not doing anything. And I honestly don't mind."
"It's not him," I said.
"Then what?—"
Like clockwork, my father appeared, stepping from the hall into the living room. "How are things going in here?" he asked.
I sighed. "Fine—just like I told you five minutes ago."
"Glad to hear it. I'm getting some water."
Dad held up his empty mug for emphasis, but I'd long since realized it was merely a prop. There was no way he was drinking that much H2O. If so, he'd be going to the bathroom non-stop.
"Alright there, Tolliver?" he said.
"Yes, Mr. Kent. Thanks again for letting me come back."
My father nodded. "Freya calls me a cool dad."
"Not so much recently," I muttered.
"I'm trying to live up to that. Also I wanted to make sure you two aren't planning any other road trips I should know about."
"Even if we were," I said sweetly, "I wouldn't have the money for gas anyway."
"Too soon, kid."
"We're reading. Just reading. Not plotting or planning anything, I promise."
He threw me a smile. "Let's keep it that way. I'll leave you to your book."
After he was gone, Tolliver turned to me and raised a brow. "Ten bucks says he's back out here in 20 minutes."
I scoffed. "I'll take that bet. I give him 15."
As we shook on it, I swallowed.
"Um, Tolliver?"
"Yeah?" he said.
"I just wanted to say..."
I love you.
I'm glad you're here.
I wish you could stay.
I want to keep you forever.
"Too much," I mumbled, shaking my head.
Tolliver looked totally confused.
"Too much reading without a break can damage your eyes," I added, trying to cover up my blunder. I wasn't entirely sure I succeeded. But Tolliver, bless him, rolled with it.
