Page 93 of When We Were Young

I pause and glance down to read the text.

Any chance I could see it tonight?

I hesitate. What do I say?

You can go ahead anytime.

His answer is immediate.

I’d like to see it with you.

Now I’m the one taking forever to respond. What does that mean exactly? Probably nothing. Get your shit together, Lizzie.

Okay. Let me look at my calendar and let you know what time. Okay?

Shit. I hit send prematurely once again. Check my calendar? What calendar? The obsessive life-size planner on the back of my door? My calendar consists of working and spending time with my boy. I have nothing major on said calendar.

Sounds good. Have fun with the ladies. You deserve it.

How does he know I’m out with the women?

I look around to make sure he’s not watching me, and I don’t see anything suspicious. It takes a minute, but I remind myself that he’s not Landon, so he probably knows from talking to Delaney or Tillie.

Under control. My life is under control now, I remind myself.

I sigh, then straighten my posture, trying to channel the woman I want to be. Strong, confident, unafraid.

“Fake it until you make it,” I mutter.

I take a deep breath and walk toward my new friends.

Chapter Thirty-Two

Holden

“Okay, open your eyes.”

When I do, I’m stunned at the transformation of this space. I feel Lizette’s eyes studying me, and I know she’s anxious, waiting for my reaction to the finished room. I turn to face her.

“It’s amazing. Really. It’s gorgeous. You somehow managed to make it rustic-chic. It fits perfectly with the vibe of small-town comfort cuisine.”

“You think the tables and chairs are all right?” she asks.

We disagreed on which tables would go best in here, but of course, it was her decision. I think she expects me to say the other ones—my pick—would’ve fit better, but they wouldn’t have. Even if I thought they would’ve, I wouldn’t rain on her parade tonight for anything.

“The tables are great. You were absolutely right.”

She plants a playful punch on my bicep.

“Don’t you forget it for next time.” She winks at me, and it’s adorable. Seeing her this happy enthralls me. “Seriously, though, thank you for everything you did to help me. I never would’ve gotten this done so quickly if you hadn’t stepped up when I broke my wrist.”

My eyes meet hers, and I wonder if she can read how proud I am of her when she looks into mine.

“Don’t think anything of it. I got to hang out with you again, so it was worth it.”

Her cheeks flush a pretty crimson, then she clears her throat.

“I also picked a name, but I haven’t told anyone yet.” There’s a slight quiver in her voice. “Do you want to be the first to hear it?”