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He’s just being nice, I tell myself.
“I’m surprised they didn’t have a direct flight,” I say to make conversation, thinking there has to be one from where we are in Denver.
“Already trying to get rid of me?” Dom is clearly teasing me.
So I try to tease back. “You are a little clingy.”
His laugh startles me, and this time he curls his fingers around my shoulder, holding me in place. “Valentine, you are a fucking delight.”
Delight.
The blush on my cheeks is basically permanent now. “Thanks.”
Thanks?
God, why am I so weird?
Usually, I’m outgoing. I’ve been calledbubblyby coworkers, and it’s fairly accurate.
It often takes a lot of effort, but I try my hardest to be nice, kind, and accommodating.
My therapist says it’s a defense mechanism. That I do it because I want people to like me and I’m overcompensating for my fear of rejection. My fear of not being liked. Not being wanted.
Stay in this moment,I remind myself. There will be plenty of time for pity parties later.
Our steps slow as we reach the gate, which is overflowing with travelers waiting for permission to board.
When we come to a stop, Dom’s arm slips away, and I have to fight off a shiver as cool air fills the space where his arm was.
“I suppose it’s too much to ask what seat you’re in.”
His comment reminds me that I need to go up to the desk. “I don’t actually know yet. My boarding pass says to get my seat assignment at the gate. Not sure why.”
“They probably flagged you for being so unruly on your last flight.”
I don’t fight my grin as I look up at him. “Heard about that?”
He winks. “I hear about everything.”
I let him see my eye roll. “I’m sure you do.” Then I sigh, assuming this is it. “Well, I better go get that seat assignment.”
Without arguing, Dom slides my new backpack down his arm before holding it out to me.
I grab my phone out of the front pocket, then hoist it onto my back, sliding both arms through the straps this time.
“Thank you for the backpack and the cookie and being…” I lift a shoulder.
I was going to saynice, but that sounds stupid. Even a little pathetic. Thanking someone just for being nice to me.
“I always try tobe.” Dom dips his chin, then steps away.
And I wonder if he’s the most sincere person I’ll ever meet.
CHAPTER3
Val
The soap dispenser is empty,so I have to scoot over to the next sink to fill my palm with the foam.
