Page 75

“Why doesn’t it matter?” Faith knew what was coming. Lisa was going to say that even if she had a crush on Courtney, Courtney wouldn’t feel the same way.

“Even if I had a crush—”

“I’m going to stop you right there, Lisa.” Faith smiled at Lisa’s shock of being interrupted. “I heavily suggest you talk to Courtney before you say another word.”

“Has… has she said something?”

“Oh no, I’m not being the go-between. Please, just talk to her.”

“Talk to who?” Courtney asked, strolling in and grabbing herself a muffin from the counter.

Faith looked between Lisa and Courtney, deliberating what she should do. She was in the process of opening her mouth to tell them she was going to make herself scarce when Lisa blurted out, “Court, will you go on a date with me?”

Courtney blushed, but then the most beautiful smile blossomed on her face. Faith couldn’t help but squeal in delight. “Yes, I’d love to,” Courtney answered rather breathlessly.

“You two are adorable,” Faith laughed.

“Shut up,” Lisa mumbled through her smile.

“Should I leave you alone?” Faith asked seriously. She didn’t want to be the third wheel.

“No, actually I wanted to ask if you were doing alright. You know, after earlier events?” Courtney asked, dropping to the chair next to Lisa.

“Actually yeah. I know everyone is worried about me, but there’s no need. Honestly, I’m doing fine. It was a shock and I don’t like what was said, but it needed to happen. I feel like a weight has been lifted. It’s no fun having someone chase you, always wondering, looking over your shoulder. I’m more worried about the future.”

“In what way?” Lisa asked, stealing half of Courtney’s muffin.

“Molly has offered me a place here, with her.”

“That’s awesome, isn’t it?” Courtney questioned.

“Yes, it’s everything I wanted.”

“But?”

“But I have Nathalie to think of. Plus, I was thinking about asking Rita, Nat’s aunt, about working with her. I know it was only a few days, but I feel like I made a home in Seattle with Carmen and Mateo.”

“Have Carmen or Mateo said anything?”

“Carmen told me I would always have a home with them. I don’t know what to do, guys.”

Lisa tapped her finger on the table absentmindedly. “I think you should do what feels right to you. Don’t feel you owe it to Molly to stay here Faith, she wouldn’t want that. If you have prospects in Seattle and you want to make a go of things with Nat, then maybe you already have your answer.”

“I need to talk to Nathalie.”

“Yeah, go call her.” Courtney was side-eyeing Lisa. Faith rolled her eyes playfully.

“Yeah, I’ll do that. Have fun, you two,” she called over her shoulder. Faith was still chuckling when the call to Nathalie connected.

“What’s funny?” Nathalie asked playfully.

“Oh, Courtney and Lisa finally figured out that they’re into each other.”

“Ah, sweet. It’s good to hear your voice,” Nathalie replied, her tone soft.

“You too. It’s been a day.” Faith filled Nathalie in on the fashion show and her parents showing up. As usual, Nathalie was the perfect girlfriend. Also perceptive.

“Why do I feel there is something bothering you that isn’t to do with your parents crashing a fashion show?”