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I narrow my eyes, shooting daggers. “Watch the movie.”
“Sure thing, Bec.”
I prop my elbow up on the armrest, leaning onto my hand. I cover my mouth with my palm to hide my smile.
Throughout the movie, I steal occasional glances at him, taking him in. I like being reminded that he’s right next to me.
Right now, he’s my safe space.
* * *
The car slowsto a stop outside his house, and we sit in silence, each waiting for the other to speak first.
The lights in my house are off, but I know Mom will be waiting for me the second I go inside. I’m trying to stall with what little time I have left before I have to face her.
“Thank you,” I say quietly.
Caleb turns to me. “For what?”
“For everything.” My cheeks warm as I answer. “I mean it. I don’t know what I would’ve done if you weren’t there.”
“Do you feel any better?”
“I do,” I say, taking a deep breath. “I’m sorry about earlier. I shouldn’t have said the things I did. I do like spending time with you.”
I can’t look up at him after those words leave my mouth. It’s too mushy. Too out of character. But he needs to know how I feel.
“So these ridiculous dates aren’t that bad then?”
My stomach twists in on itself, regret filling my mind from our little fight. “You try really hard, and I see that. I do. I think that we could be friends, if you wanted to give that a try.”
His dimples frame his wide grin. “And here I thought I was off the hook for driving you to school.”
I blush. “Well, if you really don’t want to—”
“That was a joke.”
I laugh nervously. “Right.”
“I guess you’re stuck with me for a while.”
I peak up at him and mirror his smile. “I guess so.”
I glance at the glowing clock on the dash. It’s nearing my dreaded curfew. I sigh, opening the door. “Well, I have to head inside.”
“Do you want me to go in with you?”
I exhale, bracing myself for my exit. “No. It’s okay. Besides, I’m sure you’re tired.”
His hand rests on my shoulder. “I’m not going to be able to sleep until I know you’re okay.”
“Go home. I promise I’ll be fine.”
His mouth twists, unsure of my response. “Will you text me after you talk with them?”
I nod once.
“You better. Otherwise, I’ll be so sleep deprived I won’t be able to drive tomorrow,” he says.
