Chapter 42

It was the bluntest thing I’d ever said. Hayden looked slightly stunned, then replied in a very calm tone, “You’re overthinking it. I didn’t say anything.” He turned and began cutting the watermelon, arranging each piece on the plate like little soldiers ready for inspection.

Looking at the perfectly cut watermelon, I suddenly felt a strange urge to snoop around his room. “Why aren’t you eating? Just staring at it won’t help,” Macy teased, walking over. Macy was quite a character—hands on hips when scolding, but super caring and gentle when concerned. She could tell a dirty joke like nobody’s business.

“I was waiting for you. You really stood up for me earlier,” I said playfully, handing her the largest piece of watermelon.

Macy didn’t hesitate. She took a bite and said, “Sweet, but I can’t have too much. My blood sugar’s high.”

I started on my piece, but Hayden returned to his room and stayed there. When it was time for dinner, he left again. I wanted to ask if he was going to eat, but he moved so quickly, I didn’t get the chance.

Macy huffed beside me. “Hayden’s so aloof. He only acts this way because he’s got a thing for you.” “Acting what way?” I wondered. I didn’t ask, but his massage had worked wonders. After a good night’s sleep, my foot felt fine.

The next morning, the house was eerily quiet, as if deserted. Still in my spaghetti-strap nightgown, I opened the door and was immediately met by two pairs of eyes at the table outside. Hayden quickly looked away after a few seconds, and I noticed his ears turning red again. I glanced down at my outfit and felt my face heat up.

I spun around to head back to my room, but Macy called out cheerfully, “Keira, why are you going back inside? Come have some lentil soup.”

By the time I changed and came back out, Hayden was gone. I looked toward his room. “Why didn’t he eat?”

“You scared him off,” Macy said, nudging me playfully. “You’ve got some serious skills.” Macy waggled her eyebrows, and I knew exactly what she meant, but it wasn’t true.

“You’re the one with all the dirty thoughts at your age. Think you can handle it?” I teased her.

She gave me a sharp look. “What did you say? Dirty thoughts? Have I been too nice to you these past few days that you think you can insult me?”

I laughed. “No, no, it was a compliment. Even at your age, you’re sharp and perceptive. Nothing gets past you.”

“So, do you think there’s a chance between you and Hayden?” Macy asked, her tone bouncing between casual and serious.

I stared down at my feet, memories of Jace and his foot massages flooding back. “I just can’t deal with romance right now. It’s too painful.”

“Heartbroken, huh?” Macy clucked her tongue. “Best remedy is to find a new guy.”

I couldn’t help but think, This granny is really open-minded.

I pursed my lips. “I just want some peace and quiet for now.”

Macy let out a long sigh. “Some opportunities only come once in a lifetime. But it’s up to you.” She got up to wash her bowl, leaving me alone to finish my soup.

After breakfast, I took off on my bike without checking if Hayden was out or still in his room. When I came back that evening, Macy was humming a tune, clearly in high spirits.