Page 32 of His Noble Heart

She skipped away, which left me in Rowdy’s direct line of sight. He looked surprised to see me and almost smiled, but it disappeared before it had a chance to grace his lips.

“Hey,” I greeted.

“Wassup?” His response was dry.

“Was that your little sister?” He nodded. “She’s a cutie.”

“Thanks.”

“This is the last pair in my size. I hope they fit,” Ramina said.

“Those are cute,” I said once she had one of them on.

“Aren’t they? And Rowdy just bought—wait, who are you? Do you two know each other?”

I smiled, but Rowdy still had the stone face.

“We met earlier this week. I had two flat tires, and he helped me out.”

“Oh, okay. I’m Ramina. Most people call me Mina.”

She extended her hand toward me, and we exchanged a handshake as I began to introduce myself.

“I’m—”

“Do they fit okay?” Rowdy interrupted.

“Yeah.”

“Let’s go pay before the line gets too long.”

He walked away, leaving his sister and me a bit taken aback.

“He’s been a little cranky this week. I’m so sorry he took it out on you.”

“Sweetheart, you don’t have to apologize for your brother. I’m Noelani Townsend. Rowdy told me you’re a senior and will be attending OC High School this year.”

“I am.”

“How are you feeling about it? I know it can be hard to adjust to a new school, especially during your last year.”

She shrugged. “I feel okay, I guess. I mean, I’m a little nervous, but I’m kind of excited for a fresh start.”

“Well, if you have any questions, need any help, or if it gets too overwhelming, I’m a social worker at the school. You can come see me anytime.”

“Really?” I nodded. “Oh my God. Thank you so much. I feel so much better about everything already.”

“Good.”

“Mina, let’s go!” Rowdy shouted from the other side of the store.

“He was just fussing at me about yelling across the store, and he’s louder than I was. Nice meeting you. See you Monday.”

“Nice meeting you too.”

I watched her rush toward her brother, and when I looked at him, his eyes were on me. Our gazes locked, and it felt as if he could see through my soul. I didn’t want to be the first to look away, but my sisters’ voices got my attention.

“What?” I answered, annoyed by their interruption.