Chapter 26

Cade stays so long, waiting outside while the psychologist talks to Arkady, that when they bring Arkady something to eat, the nurse brings a sandwich for Cade as well.

“Not quite how I pictured our first meal together.” Arkady sighs.

“Well, the food isn’t as good as I’d hoped, but the company is just as fine as I remember.” Cade smiles, a twinkle in his eyes.

“I bet you say that to all the boys,” Arkady says, but he can’t help blushing.

“Not really, not even to all the cute ones. I’m not going to lie: there’s something about you that captivates me. It’s a little scary, actually.”

“Scary?” Arkady repeats.

“I’ve known you a week, and I already feel like I’d do anything to make you smile. That intense feeling is scary. I’ve dated before, and cared deeply for some of those men, but this? Don’t get frightened that I’m going to declare love at first sight, but it’s definitely deep, like at first conversation.” Cade sounds nervous, like he’s not sure how Arkady will react.