Playing (Inked Hearts 2)

Emma nods. "You push college a lot for someone who barely graduated high school."

"And?"

"It's very parent like."

"I'm your legal guardian."

"Not anymore. I'm eighteen."

"You want to move out and pay your own rent?"

"Are you really throwing down an ultimatum?"

"No." I'd never do that to Em.

"It's just. I do appreciate you taking care of her. Even if I think it's weird you two are hanging out so much."

"Thanks."

"And... I do appreciate you taking care of me too." She leans in for a hug. "I love you."

"Love you too."

She settles back into her seat and nods to the TV. "Okay. Enough feelings. Let's watch some spy action."

I chuckle. Em is funny nervous. It's rare. "You working two Thursdays from now?"

"Why?"

"I have a surprise. For me, you, and Kay."

"Same as every Thursday. Four to eight."

"Good. You two can meet me at the shop. We'll go together."

"What is it?"

I shrug who knows.

"Don't make me take back everything I said."

"You won't."

"Try me."

"I am."

She folds her arms. "Fine. I won't take it back. This time. But only for Kay's sake."

"She's my saving grace."

"She really is."

* * *

I disappear into my room to work on a mockup. When I reappear downstairs, Emma and Kaylee are giggling over ice cream sundaes.

Emma nods to me then motions cut it.