Page 25

Admitting that, even to my best friend, was something.
After I’d lost my grandmother, I had devoted myself to living life to the fullest. It was something she had always told me—and something she herself had never gotten the chance to do. So I did it for her. Lived my life unapologetically and without question. And it was fucking fun. I didn’t second-guess myself, didn’t doubt myself, and if somebody had a problem with me, I paid them exactly the attention they deserved.
Which was none.
But that usual approach wasn’t working with Enzo.
He had gotten under my skin. And I didn’t like it one bit.
Being with him made me feel out of control. And if there was something I hated more than polyester, it was being out of control.
“I mean, I’m not going to say Enzo doesn’t have his rough edges. But he’s a good person. And Nico trusts him, which means I trust him. So you can, too. But protect your heart.”
“Heart?” I said. My voice was almost a bark, and Hope started to giggle.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to offend you by suggesting that your heart could become entangled with another person,” she said.
I smiled. “Nobody’s perfect, but don’t make that kind of mistake again.”
Hope snickered but then turned serious.
“But you seem to be having fun with Enzo. He’s a cool guy, and this will help keep you safe. I don’t see what the issue is,” she said.
“I didn’t say there was one,” I said.
“No, you didn’t. But I know that face, Molly. Something’s on your mind. Something more than what you’ve already said.”
I sighed. “It’s just…”
“Don’t think you can handle him?” she said, her voice lilting.
“Don’t start with me, Hope. I’m prepared to make very reckless decisions to keep my reputation intact. So don’t encourage me,” I said.
She smiled. “Silly. I don’t know what I was thinking. But, anyway, just go for it. Have fun.”
“Oh my God. My old Hope would be scandalized,” I said, smiling at her.
“Maybe you’ve worn off on me,” she said.
“No. That was all Nico. But I like it. You look happy, Hope,” I said, turning serious. I reached across the table and grabbed her hand. “And you deserve it,” I said.
“So do you, Molly,” Hope said.
“Yeah,” I said.
I looked at my watch.
“I told jerkface that I’d meet him. Apparently there’s a balloon animal exhibit he wants to go to,” I said.
Hope furrowed her brow. “You know what? It’s Enzo. I don’t ask questions.”
“Yeah. I guess I have to start taking your advice,” I said.
Hope gave me a hug, and I was on my way.
“If you ever tell anyone about this, I will hunt you down,” I said a few hours later.
“Your secrets are safe with me, doll,” Enzo said.