Page 17 of The Ruthless Note

“Great.” He clears his throat.

“Is there something else?”

“What are you doing tomorrow after school?”

“Tomorrow?” I tilt my head and think about it. After work service, I have my shift at the diner. “I’m a little busy. Why?”

“I was hoping you could help me pick out a gift for Rick. I’m terrible at things like that.”

I blink rapidly. Is he asking me because he sincerely needs my help or is this an excuse to spend time with me?

I can practically hear Breeze squealing at me in my head.Of course it’s a date, doofus!

“If you’re too busy…”

“No.” I blurt. “No, I can go with you. I’d… I’d like that.”

Hunter is gorgeous, kind, and not a major jerk likesomepeople. Hanging out with him is a better use of my time than playing mind games with a monster in human form anyway.

“Great.” His voice sounds upbeat, and it makes me smile.

“Great,” I say.

“I’ll pick you up at Redwood then.”

“Great,” I squeak.

He laughs. “Great.”

My heartbeat picks up. Why do I feel shy and awkward all of a sudden?

After setting the phone on the sink, I let out a nervous squeal and squeeze my eyes shut.

What should I wear tomorrow?

As I rub moisturizer on, I skid through my wardrobe. When I remember I’ll be wearing my uniform anyway, my nerves ease a bit.

Don’t overthink this, Cadence.

I finish dressing and ease out of the bathroom. A shadow moves to my right. I let out a frantic yelp before I realize it’s Vi. She’s standing outside the door, her arms folded over her chest. Her dark hair drapes her shoulders and her eyes are glued to mine.

“Why were you giggling? Who was that on the phone?” Vi asks.

“Are you spying on me now?”

Vi narrows her eyes. “Was it Dutch or Hunter?”

“Hunter.” I scowl. “Why would Dutch be calling me?”

Vi follows me to my bedroom. “Are you really going out with Hunter now?”

“It’s just to pick out a gift for Rick’s birthday party next month.”

“The party’s in amonth.Who plans ahead like that?”

“Maybe he wants to get a head start.”

“You can’t seriously believe that’s all it is.”