Page 39 (2/2)

“Have you all decided?” he asks us,on the other side of the table

I nod and point to what I want—no way a the Italian name for the pasta, and Xander orders a steak

When the waiter leaves, I reach for ht shake to uy I’ve known reat, but this right herearound the house behind our friends’ backs, or secretive glances exchanged at the office, this is us out in the open exposing ourselves as a real couple We’re not hiding and that makes me nervous I mean, I doubt anyone we knoould see us here anyway, but it still feels slightly dangerous

Xander toys with the napkin in his lap, and I wonder if he’s as nervous as I am

I sip a big gulp of wine and nearly choke

That’s enough wine for now, I think to lass on the table

Xander sips at his own glass, sets it down, and taps his fingers on the table

Tap Tap Tap

Just when I can’t take the aard silence between us any”

My heart ht be about to say Illogical thoughts run through my mind

He’s changed his ht me to this nice restaurant to soften the blow

He has a secret love child

He hates cheese

“I got drafted for the Broncos”

Wait? What? “Yeah,” I say hesitantly “I already know” His eyes widen in surprise I think he was expecting“That’s what you wanted to tell me?” I ask for clarification and he nods