Page 66 of Let Me Show You

With a scoff, he grabs his stuff and walks toward the door to leave. “Nah, hard pass.”

I smirk and shake my head when he’s out of sight.

“So a little birdie told me you’re making dinner for Katie tomorrow night.” Gemma beams.

“Yep, gonna celebrate her birthday.” I have about ten of them to make up for.

“Hope you know how lucky you are that she forgave you so fast.” Gemma crosses her arms. “So don’t screw this up.”

“Thanks for the confidence, sis.”

“Hormones,” Tyler mouths.

Gemma smacks his arm. “Oh shut it. I’m on your side, Noah, but Katie’s my best friend. I don’t want her to get hurt again.”

“Trust me, I don’t deserve her kindness and definitely not her, so I’m willing to do anything to make up for the pain I’ve caused. Hurting her is the last thing I’ve ever wanted. I won’t make the same mistake twice, and I’ll do anything to prove that to her.”

“I have no doubt you two will figure it out.” Tyler pats my shoulder.

“I’m just worried that I could be putting her and Owen in a dangerous situation, considering there’s a target on my back, so I’m not telling anyone,” I explain.

“Yeah, Aunt Loretta and Uncle Elliot would lose their shit.” She rolls her eyes. “But don’t worry about them. This is between you and Katie, and that’s all that matters. On the plus side, Katie’s parents are supportive no matter what, so you won’t have to worry about them.”

I nod because I’d like to keep it that way. If people knew we were hanging out again, it’d be the talk of the town. It’s the last thing either of us needs while we figure out what our future holds.

“Alright, go enjoy your lunch so we can start the flooring this afternoon,” Tyler says.

I grab the sandwich I packed and hang out in the back while I text Katie.

Noah

Just wanted you to know I’m thinking about you and can’t wait to see you tomorrow.

She must be on her break too because jumping dots appear on the screen.

Katie

Been thinking about you too and really excited for our date

After I told my dad about my plans for this weekend, he booked an overnight trip with Belinda at a romantic bed and breakfast in Mobile, the next town over. Now we’ll have the house to ourselves, and the thought makes me feel like a nervous teenager.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t anxious as hell for today. Though I’m eager to make Katie’s birthday special, it won’t make up for the decade I was gone, but hopefully, it’s a start. After I shower, I send her a text.

Noah

I couldn’t wait till later to say Happy Birthday!

Katie

Thank you

Noah

Can’t wait to see you! I’m about to hit the grocery store to grab the food for our dinner. Anything particular you’d like me to get for dessert?

Katie

Surprise me!