Page 113 of More For Me

Everly’s expression turns sad, and she reaches for her purse. “Of course. We’ll go now.”

“No,” I blurt out without thinking, and she freezes. “Sorry.” I close my eyes, trying to get my shit together. “You don’t need to come. Stay here with your family.”

Her expression is unreadable as she studies me. “I see my family every day, Bodhi. If your mom is having a hard time, I want to be there for her. And for you.”

Of course she does. Because Everly is kind and good and God, do I love her. I also know that if she comes with me, I won’t have to try very hard to cheer up my mom. Seeing Everly will be enough to get her out of any funk. And once she knows we’re together? My mom is going to lose her mind.

My chest tightens in protest at the thought. I don’twantthat. I can’t even express why, exactly, but I just know that I don’t want to use my relationship with Everly as another attempt to make my mother happy.

It’s mine,a childish voice in my head insists, and I feel stupid for the possessive urge that washes over me. But I can’t force it away. Something about bringing Everly with me feels wrong.

“I think it would be better if I just go,” I tell her, trying to keep my voice controlled, not wanting her to know how confused and crazy I feel right now.

Everly nods, even though she doesn’t look happy. “Whatever you think is best for her.” Her eyes search my face, the concern in them growing. “I’ll see you at home later?”

“Definitely.” I stand, already feeling bad for how long I’ve lingered when I should have been rushing to my mom’s side. I also feel bad because what I really should be telling Everly is that I won’t be coming home. I should stay with my mom tonight. I should stay until I know she’s okay.

But I’m not going to. Even if I should. The very idea of sleeping anywhere but with Everly tonight sends a shot of anger through me.

“I’ll grab a pizza on the way back,” I tell her instead, trying to force down the guilt. Then I lean down to kiss her, the motion automatic—until I hear several sharp intakes of breath around us.

I look over and see what feels like a hundred eyes on us. Santana has a huge grin on her face. Lyric is clutching her cousin’s arm, like she’s watching some teenage drama play out in front of her. Rose, Alex, Paige, and most of Everly’s aunts are all smiling too. Even Lennon and Daltrey are eyeing us with interest.

I look down at Everly and she rolls her eyes. “They’re the worst.”

“Pretty much.” I kiss her anyway, because I don’t really care who sees us and I hate that I have to leave. I would put up with every bit of Ransome nosiness for a few more minutes with her.

I grit my teeth as I pull away, ignoring the happy sighs echoing around us. “I’ll see you in a few hours.”

Then I walk away without looking back, not sure I’ll be able to leave if I do.