Page 14 of True Blue

“I can’t date my patient’s grandson,” I blurt out.

Oh my fucking god, Indie, stop talking!

It’s a terrible habit I’ve picked up around him, like I’m physically incapable of not speaking my thoughts.

Teddy’s face falls, and I feel a deep, relentless need to make him smile again.

“But coffee isn’t exactly a date. I mean... I can technically be friends with my patient’s family, and friends buy each other coffee... right?”

Teddy looks like he’s practically vibrating through my rambling.

“Yes! I mean no—wait, no I mean...” Teddy sighs, placing his hand over his eyes as his cheeks flame.

I can’t help it, I break out into giggles.

Actual giggles.

Bouncy, high pitched, straight from my belly giggles that I don’t think I’ve ever—no, never. I’ve never giggled before. I used to think the sound was irritating or fake.

And now look at me—giggling.

Maybe this is growth, because the next time I hear someone giggling, I’m going to smile. Especially if they feel the way I do right now—buzzy and light and happier than I know what to do with.

I’ve never felt like this before.

Not until Teddy.

He peeks at me through his fingers when he hears me, and his hand drops as his smile grows.

“What I mean is—Indie, would you go on a totally platonic, coffee not-date with me, your patient’s grandson?”

And once again, I don’t hesitate—I jump.

“Yes.”

3

INDIE

SEPTEMBER

"So... you're not my Nana's doctor anymore."

"I am not."

"And we've been on fourteen amazing not-dates."

"We have,” I say, my grin widening.

"The coffee not-date, the ice cream not-date with Nana. The gluten-free bakery where I discovered gluten-free cinnamon rolls are just as good as regular⁠—"

I cut in with a dry laugh, "No, they're not."

"Okay—no, they're not," Teddy agrees easily, making me snort. "But they're… alright."

"It'll never live up to the real stuff," I tease as I sip my iced tea. "But I do appreciate you trying."

"I would do anything for you, Indie Miller," Teddy murmurs, reaching across the table—reaching for me.