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“Sorry, we really have to go. But I promise I’m very single. Please, use that.”
I point to the napkin in her hand. She swallows hard, then mutters, “Uh. Yeah. Yes. I will.”
“Okay. Bye.”
I give her hand a squeeze, and Harper and I start back across the cafeteria.
“She was pretty,” Harper observes.
“You think so?”
“Definitely. And she seemed to like you.”
“I hope so.”
“Come on. We need to get back up there,” my mom says as we get to her.
“Sorry.”
“Braden!” I turn to see Hollie running over. She stops just in front of me, then grabs my shirt, pulling me closer to her. Her lips land hard on mine, and an electric current shoots through me. Thirty thousand volts straight to my heart.Holy shit.
I manage to kiss her back for half a second before she pulls away.
She smiles a devilish smile—one that feels familiar. Have I met this girl before?
“I’ll text you.”
“I’ll be waiting.”
“Dad!” Harper yanks on my arm.
“Gotta go!” I call as we hurry down the hallway to the elevators.
“Did you know her?” my mom asks.
“Nope.”
“I take it back, Dad. Shereallylikes you.”
I really like her too,I think as my heart slams into my ribs.
I take a few deep breaths when we get in the elevator.
My mind is rolling with thoughts of Hollie. The things I felt with her today are feelings I’ve been searching for but haven’t found. Every year I’d meet a girl, think there was potential, and date her for a few months before inevitably ending it because I never felt those strong, complex feelings I craved. Then I’d give up and just hook up for a little while. The cycle has repeated for years.
Today, for the first time in a long time, I felt something—a spark so intense all I want is more of her.
“Come on.” Harper leads me down the hall like I don’t know where I’m going. A little chill goes through me as I pass the room she was delivered in just over eleven years ago.
Another lifetime ago.
