Finding Faith (Return of the Dragons)

Her breath caught as his words reached inside her, the tendrils snaking their way through her body. She didn’t know how she knew, but she had a feeling that he was talking about more than just calling or texting.

Whatever she needed—no matter what it was—he’d be there to help. He’d be there for her. No matter what.

She wasn’t sure why she felt that so strongly, but she did, all the way down to her soul.

It left her speechless.

And afraid. Because what if she was wrong about him? What if everyone was? What if the warmth she felt in his presence, at his words, was solely in her imagination?

What if she made the same mistake her sister made?

Cody cocked an eyebrow at her, and she realized she was staring at him mutely, without saying a word.

Weirdo, table for one, please.

Clearing her throat of the emotion clogging it, she nodded as she stood. “I will. And thanks for the ride home. I really appreciate it. I’ll see you tomorrow?”

Wincing as it came out as a question—like she was needy and had to have even more confirmation—she smiled weakly at him. She prayed that her insecurities and concerns were all in her head, because she’d embarrassed herself enough around him.

Although Carlie was the worst offender, causing Olivia far more embarrassment than she’d caused herself when it came to him.

“It was no problem at all. I enjoyed spending time with you.” Pulling his keys out of his pocket, he winked at her, stunning her speechless. “I’ll see you tomorrow. I’m looking forward to it.”

“Me too,” she forced out weakly, watching as he walked confidently to his truck.

He turned around and drove slowly down the driveway, and she slowly shook her head as she watched him go.

What the hell just happened?

Did they just make a date for tomorrow?

Slamming the brakes on that train of thought, she shook her head. No. It wasn’t a date. It was just friends watching a movie together.

Right?

The front door opened, and she turned reluctantly away from his truck, watching as Carlie, Paisley, and Sierra tumbled out. Fiona wasn’t among them, so maybe she hadn’t heard Olivia’s conversation with Cody.

Why she cared, she wasn’t sure, but she did.

Oh, who was she kidding. She cared deeply.

Sierra was the first to speak. “How did Cody end up bringing you home?”

“There’s something wrong with my truck, and he just happened to be walking by when I was checking it out. Don’t worry, I can fix it. I just have to wait for the parts store to open Monday.”

Carlie waved her hand impatiently. “Forget about all that. Did you notice how he was looking at you? How he was talking to you? He asked you on a date, girl! I told you he was into you. I’d be jealous if he wasn’t so clearly meant for you.”

“Whoa now,” she replied, holding up her hands. “A few conversations and a ride home do not mean he’s meant for me. And tomorrow isn’t a date. It’s just two friends hanging out.”

Carlie rolled her eyes. “Whatever you need to tell yourself so you’ll let this happen naturally. I know differently. I’m just waiting on your dragon to tell you he’s your mate. It’s coming, I know it is.”

Heart fluttering madly at the thought, she sputtered out a laugh. “You’ve clearly turned delusional, Carlie.” Pausing, she narrowed her eyes at the crazy, outspoken dragon shifter as she hooked her arm in hers. “Come on. We need to have a little chat.”

Paisley laughed as she watched them go, pointing her finger at Carlie. “I warned you. I told you to shut up, but you didn’t listen. You’re in for it now.”

Olivia silently agreed as she continued to tug Carlie into the house.

Her friend was about to learn some manners and etiquette. Even if she had to beat it into her.