Page 73 of Charming Violet

“Little one, it’s only a four-hour round trip. I can do it?—”

“But stil…-“

“I’d do anything so you’re happy. And I’ve been considering opening another shop, so the city could be it.”

“Plus, we wouldn’t be in the heart of the city, we’ll find a place just outside. Somewhere where the neighbours aren’t too close to hear you scream and beg.”

The guys laugh at my comment, but Violet worries her lip. Thinking everything over.

“You’ll be able to see Ivy more. The city has better pubs. Shopping. More job opportunities, and did I mention Ivy lives there?”

That makes her smile but then she looks at me sceptically. “What was said between you and my mum?”

Ah, clever. “Nothing” I shrug.

“Landon, you promised no more secrets.”

“I’m being serious: nothing. Well, nothing worth repeating. She said a few things and I shut it down.”

“Okay let’s move closer to the city.” Her smile is beaming. This is our future, us four in the city, living our best life.

“I’ll have to call Ivy.”

She is making lists, questions to ask Ivy, issues she has to go over with the uni, packing and moving. This goes all the way until we’re home again.

“Wait, you just had all your stuff delivered from your apartment in the city!”

“And it’s a good thing I never unpacked.” I walk past her swatting her ass.

Axel

I can’t helpthe small bubble of laughter that escapes me at Violet and her list-making. She has half a dozen and I’m not entirely sure what all of them are.

Getting a beer from the fridge and leaving her to it, I make my way to my room. I got to sort out a few things. And find a job, since we’re moving.

Not long into my job search, there is a knock at the door.

“Yeah?”

Violet’s head pops in through the crack. “Can I come in?”

“Of course you can, baby.”

“Just wanted to check on you. You slipped away earlier.”

“Needed to get the ball rolling on this job search.”

“Yeah, um sure ok.”

“Violet?” I say firmly there is something she isn’t saying.

“I just—you’re quiet compared to chatterbox and Landon.”

I laugh when she calls Maverick a chatterbox, because she’s not wrong.

She’s beaming at me, I look at her in confusion before she confesses, “I like your laugh.”

“Thank you. Anyway, as you were saying?”