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“Why live in anticipation of whatmighthappen?” Violet said. “We have to be realistic, or we’re setting ourselves up for inevitable disappointment. Life’s not a fantasy.”

“I realize that, but you’re too young to sound so jaded. God never promised the journey would be easy, but He still wants us to enjoy it.” Hayden thumped his pen against the desk. “Do you smile?”

Her gaze darted to his hands. “Do you have ADHD?”

He increased his drumming.

Violet flashed him a fake smile. “How’s this?”

“Not that one. Arealsmile.” He’d seen her smile many times, but he could count on one hand the smiles directed specifically at him.

“Say something funny, and maybe you’ll see one.”

He laughed. “I knew you had a funny bone hidden inside you somewhere.”

“Are you implying my life’s dull?” She reached out with one hand to still his thumping.

“Never!” Sitting back in his chair, he tossed the pen on the desk. “Do you date, Violet?”

“None of your business.” She visibly bristled.

“Let me guess. You have a cat.”

She looked torn between laughing or spitting on him. “My roommate, Dani, does.”

“Then you do, too.” At least she hadn’t run away—yet. “Okay. I think I get it now.”

“I know I’ll regret asking this, but what dothinkyou get?” Violet tucked herSchedule of Lifeaway then slung her purse over one shoulder, poised to escape.

“You’re skittish because you’ve experienced some not-so-pleasant surprises in your life.”

Her frown returned. “We all have those, Hayden. It’s part of growing up and learning to cope with the unexpected.”

He’d hit a nerve. “I’m sorry if I offended you, Vi. That wasn’t my intent.”

“Forget about it, but I’d appreciate it if you didn’t call me Vi.” She straightened her already neat-as-a-pin side of the desk.

“Because you don’t like the nickname or because it’s reserved for”—he used air quotes—“the ‘special people’ in your life?”

She hiked her purse higher. “You’re insufferable.”

“What can I say? You bring out the best in me.”

“Then we’re even. You have the unique ability to bring out theworstin me.”

She’s not rushing for the exit.She’d never admit it, but deep down, Violet enjoyed their time together as much as he did. His instincts rarely failed him.

“I thought you didn’t believe in apologies.”

What?Hayden stared at her a moment. Then her meaning computed, and he snapped his fingers. “You heard my conversation with Eddie the other night, didn’t you?”

The look in her eyes reminded him of a cornered animal. “What if I did?”

“You don’t have to be so defensive, you know.”

“Then maybe you should stop trying to psychoanalyze me.”

His brows lifted. “Is that what I’m doing? It wasn’t—”

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