Page 54 of Come to Me

"Of course I-"

"Do you tell him when you're upset? When you need help?"

I bite my lip.

I do. Sometimes. I may not go into lurid detail, but I talk to Luke about how I feel. More or less. "Sometimes."

"Well, there's a reason why he's worried. I'm not saying you need to tell him every tiny thought you have, but he's obviously not getting enough. Maybe you could tell him more to ease his mind."

"You're never on his side."

She sits back in her chair.

"I'm not on anyone's side. I want you two to live happily ever after together. But it isn't going to happen if you don't talk to him."

Damn it. I hate talking about this.

"Maybe."

"Think about it. It would be a shame to lose someone who loves you so much," she implores.

Does she really think I'm pushing Luke that hard? Does she really think I might lose him?

I frown down at the table.

It doesn't feel great to have my fears spoken aloud by someone else.

The waitress returns with our food, and I push the thoughts away.

Laurie is here and we're going to have fun. We aren't going to sit in this little cafe wallowing.

I refuse to do that.

Laurie slides her fork into her chocolate chip pancakes, bringing a large bite to her lips. She closes her eyes, clearly savoring the taste. "Oh my God, Alyssa, you have to try these." She clears her throat, catching herself. "If you want."

"Okay."

"Really?"

I nod.

I can do this. And I don't want her to worry.

I take a bite of the pancakes.

It's a tiny bite. But it's something.

They're good. Sweet with a rich cocoa flavor.

Laurie practically squeals over my taking a bite, and I know she'll leave me be for the rest of the day.

I no longer merit concern.

Now I have to figure out a way to convince Luke of the same thing.

Chapter Twelve

Luke