I rolled my eyes. "Yeah."
"I was thinking about how ecstatic I was to have you in my car again."
My heart thudded in my chest.
"How that was the most fun I've had reading ever."
"Obviously, you've been reading the wrong books," I quipped through a dry throat.
"And," Tolliver said, his smile coming back fully, "I was thinking that your dad likes me."
I scoffed, and a surprised laugh escaped at that. "How do you figure?"
"Well, he let me drive you here," he said.
"Because it was convenient, and he had to work."
"He gripped my hand really hard when we first met."
"That means he likes you?" I asked.
"Pretty sure it does, yeah." He nodded. "Also, he threatened me and told you to keep the door open."
I shook my head. "Sorry Tolliver, but that makes no sense. How does that translate into him liking you?"
"I think," Tolliver said, meeting my eyes, "it means he thinksyoulike me. And that part had me smiling the most."
I swallowed.
Tried to find words.
Couldn't.
As Tolliver leaned forward, my breath caught—but he was only unbuckling my seatbelt.
"Better go or you'll be late," he murmured, still not leaning back.
"I...yeah. I'm gonna...right," I said slightly dazed.
"I have to go pick up my brothers and sister," Tolliver said as he finally leaned away, "but I can get you after your appointment. So long as you don't mind riding back with a bunch of hockey nuts."
"No, that's okay, I can walk."
"You sure?"
I nodded. "The aquatic center's not far. Plus, it's a beautiful day," I finished lamely.
What I really needed was the fresh air and some time away from this guy who had my brain going mushy around the edges.
"Okay," Tolliver said.
"Okay," I repeated.
"See you later, Freya."
"Bye—oh wait." I tried to school my features into a scowl. "Don'tcome back tomorrow."
Tolliver grinned.
