Evelyn's face went red instantly. "I hate you."
Patricia grinned. "That's a yes."
Evelyn laughed, shaking her head. "We just wanted it to feel right, not rushed."
Patricia softened, leaning her head against Evelyn's shoulder. "Okay. That part I respect."
Then she immediately added, "But the moment you say the word, I expect that man to never walk properly again."
Evelyn snorted. "You are impossible."
"And yet," Patricia said smugly, "you love me."
Evelyn wrapped an arm around her. "Unfortunately."
They sat there for a moment, comfortable and familiar.
Then Patricia glanced sideways. "So, does he at least know what he is missing?"
Evelyn smiled, eyes soft. "Oh, he knows."
Patricia clapped once. "Good, I was worried."
Laughter filled the room—easy, warm, grounding.
After talking about random things, Evelyn couldn't help but notice how Patricia had been looking at her phone more than she usually did.
Evelyn tilted her head, watching Patricia a little too closely.
