Page 66 of Tracing Holland

“We’re just…I don’t know.Just getting close for now.That’s all,” Holland continues, and I’m struck again by her profound accuracy.I wouldn’t have known how to begin to explain what we are, what’s happening between us, but “getting close” certainly applies.

I glance at Casey and try to read his expression.While Callie obviously supports our nascent relationship, I don’t know if Casey is ready to understand.I wouldn’t blame him for being hesitant, but I’m also glad it’s out.I don’t want to keep things from him either.Not anymore.

“This is just between the four of us.We’re not talking about it yet.There’s nothing to really say at this point anyway,” I explain, and see Casey visibly relax.

He lets out his breath.“Ok, good.Because you know my dad’s funeral is probably the worst possible place to make that announcement.”

I roll my eyes.“Uh, yeah.I get that, Case.”

He shrugs and gives me a sheepish smile.“Ok, just making sure.”He quiets and studies us for a moment.His face changes, and I hold my breath for the verdict.“It’s good, though.Really good.I’m glad you’re ‘getting close,’” he says finally, focusing back on me.I return his smile, warmed, and yes, relieved, by his approval.

He pauses to give us a hard stare.“I just hope you kids are being safe,” he jokes, then flinches when Callie smacks him again.

Holland and I laugh.“We’re good.Thanks.”

Casey’s brotherNate had offered to pick us up at the airport and drive us to the hotel, but Casey didn’t want to be reliant on others, having no idea how the coming drama would unfold.It’s a smart move, and I’m also relieved we’re renting a car and making our own accommodations.It’s a little awkward as Holland and I check into our separate rooms, but even though Casey and Callie know we’re “getting close,” we’re not exactly at the point of sharing a room yet either.At least we’re on the same floor, which seems like a fortunate compromise.Casey waits until we all have our keys before issuing instructions.

“Alright, let’s get settled in and cleaned up.I already let Molly and Nate know we’re here so I’m sure they’re going to want to meet up tonight.You guys good?”

We nod.“Got it.Let us know the plan,” I say.Casey and Callie are both looking at us with hidden smiles, and I actually start to feel shy about the whole thing.

“Ok.Well, um…have fun until then, I guess.But not too much.It might not be long.Not sure how much time you need to ‘get close,’” Casey teases.

I roll my eyes.“Shut up,” I spit back, and he grins.“We shouldn’t have said anything.”

“No!You absolutely should have!”Callie cries.“Thank you, Luke.It means a lot that you did.I’ll keep him in line.Promise.”She gives us an apologetic look as she shoves Casey in the direction of the elevators.“What is wrong with you?”she snaps as they move away.

I cast a concerned glance at Holland after they leave, but she only seems amused by the whole thing.

“What about you?”she says, moving toward the elevators as well.

“What about me?”I ask, following her.

“I don’t know.Everyone’s concerned about Casey, but what about you?You’ve been pretty quiet since we boarded the flight from Chicago.Well, more so than usual,” she adds with a smile.I return a weak one of my own.

“I know.Sorry.A lot on my mind.”

“Um, yeah, I know.That was my polite way of saying spill it.”

I laugh and follow her onto the elevator.

“I can’t believe you’re still willing to go on elevators with me after Myrtle Beach.”

She casts me an amused glance as she punches our floor number.“It’s not without reservation, I’ll be honest.”

“Well, I promise to never again act like a dick to you in an elevator.”

She smirks.“You better not, although I’m not sure I like your qualification.”

I grin and shrug as the door opens again and we move into the hallway.

“What’s your room?”I ask, and she glances down at her welcome brochure.

“307.”

I nod.“Ok.I’m 310.”

We start walking in silence and come to an awkward stop before her door.