Free Reveal (Cryptid Tales) by Brina Courtney Page B

walks over to the door, she winks at me over her shoulder. I smile and shake my head as I grab my jacket and walk through the front door that Hugh is holding open for me.
     
    As we get into his yellow pickup I finally notice what he’s wearing. My seat creaks as I sit down and I observe his boot cut jeans and a black sweater that makes him look like he’s in his mid twenties, and hot, very, very hot.
     
    We begin the short drive to the college. Hugh drives slowly; putting down his window slightly by hand crank to breathe in what is finally fresh spring air.
     
    “ It’s nice today isn’t it?” I offer, hoping to start up conversation.
     
    “ Yeah, it’s beautiful outside. Makes me miss home though. I’m going back there next week for spring break.”
     
    “ Oh to Texas?”
     
    “ Yeah, it’s going to be great, home cooked meals, I don’t have to do my wash, and best part is no classes.” He quickly adds, “I really like your mom’s though, so don’t tell her I said that OK?”
     
    “ No problem, you’re almost done with freshmen year, I can bet you’re getting burnt out. Did you understand the solution to the last problem you texted me?” We’re speaking so fluidly like nothing even happened last night. For now I’m happy to ignore it.
     
    Hugh looks lost in thought. “Oh yeah, the problem, it was easy once you explained it. Thanks for that.”
     
    We pull into a metered spot in front of the old brick building the coffee shop sits in. He turns off the truck and as I go to get out he grabs my arm.
     
    “ Shay, wait. I need to tell you something.”
     
    Oh great probably that we have to watch out for dogs or something equally ridiculous.
     
    But instead all he says is, “I’m sorry.”
     
    “ Sorry for what?” Now I’m even more confused.
     
    “ For springing everything on you last night. I wanted to get together again after that night at the store, but I didn’t know how to start the subject with you. And Jeremy told me how you would be coming to find him soon so I just waited. I only hear his whispers so it’s hard for me to understand him sometimes. I had to see if for myself to believe that you really are one of us. I’m sorry I couldn’t trust you before. I really am. I get it if you’re angry with me.”
     
    He looks at me with those puppy dog eyes and I can hardly stand it. I totally trust him, everything about him screams loyal and honest. He is easily the best person I have ever met.
     
    “ Hugh, I’m not angry. If anything I’m relieved. At least I know I’m not alone anymore, which is all I’ve ever really wanted.”
     
    I smile at him and he squeezes my hand, we’re in this together now, I can feel it.
     
    We spend the next several hours chatting at the cafe. I love hearing about Texas and how Hugh grew up on a reservation. He talks about another group in Kentucky that they visit often, but besides them, they really don’t know any other tribes. They shy away from other clans to maintain their secret.
     
    When he notices it’s getting dark Hugh says we should head back to my house. He wants to make a good impression on my mom, it’s cute.
     
    Mom greets us on the porch claiming that she’s out due to the nice weather, but I know she’s just out here waiting for us.
     
    When Hugh leaves he shakes her hand, I can tell she’s really going to like him by the relaxed expression on her face.
     
    “ I’ll call you later Shay. Good night.” He gives me a quick kiss on the cheek before walking away. When I turn towards Mom I’m practically bouncing with excitement.
     
    Mom grins, “Looks like you’ve got yourself a boyfriend.”
     
    My lips can hardly contain my teeth I’m smiling so wide and I say, “I think I do.”
     

Chapter 16
     
    Days pass and for the most part I spend them with Hugh. We hang out at his apartment or go for runs together. His apartment is small, just a two bedroom with a living room and kitchen. There’s not a lot of