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Nineteen
CULLEN
Nardi’s behavior is extremely puzzling and I have no idea how to approach her. She’s been sullen, snappy, and serious the entire afternoon.
At this point, my very presence annoys her. It seems everything I say can be used against me, so I choose not to say anything.
But that’s the wrong strategy.
My silence only makes her looks darker and her words sharper.
What was supposed to be a fun evening of getting her cast removed and then going out for dinner or coffee in celebration is quickly running off the rails.
My head swings back to Nardi while I drive. She catches me looking and frowns at me as if I insulted her and offended her entire family.
Shaken, I focus on the road again.
Women are a total mystery to me, but Nardi Davis is on a whole other level.
What did I do wrong?
With a sigh, I look at Josiah in the rearview mirror. His eyes dart up at that moment and he offers me a warm smile.
I smile back, hoping he keeps his promise of not mentioning my upcoming ‘trip to Mars’ to anyone. Josiah is a relatively sheltered kid, so he won’t pick up on what that means, but Nardi will know exactly what I was saying to her brother.
I have no idea how she’ll take it.
After what happened in the hospital lobby, I feel she’s been getting more and more uncomfortable with the reality of my death.
Guilt tugs on my heart.
You’ll ruin her if you keep hanging around her, boy. You want to fail at life and at love like your old man?
I inhale deeply and squeeze the steering wheel tighter. That negative voice has been getting louder and louder in my head.
But good ole’ dad’s not the only one fueling my thoughts. The doctor’s three-week deadline is a constant warning, and the pressure to tie up loose ends has been steadily increasing.
I’m not ready to let go of Nardi yet.
More time.
That’s all I’m asking for.
I just want more time with her.
“Cullen, slow down.” Nardi’s hand impulsively latches onto my bicep. “You’re speeding.”
My eyes stray to the speedometer and I’m stricken with panic when I see the number. I hadn’t realized I’d been moving that fast.
“Sorry.” I slam my foot on the brakes, making the car lurch.
“Do you always drive like a madman?” Nardi questions, twisting around to check on Josiah who’s nonchalantly tapping on his phone.
“I’m sorry. That’s never happened before. I’ll be more careful.”
Nardi’s expression softens as she takes in my befuddled response. “Are you nervous about something?”
“No.”