Page 241 of Worth the Trip

I ignored her.

Malcolm set the canopy down and wiped his hands against his shorts.

Nyla looked at him. “You really didn’t have to stay and help.”

“I know.”

“Then why did you?”

His eyes moved to her.

“Wanted to.”

That caught her faster than any slick line had all day.

Her expression softened.

“Thank you.”

“You welcome.” Then his grin returned. “Don’t let gratitude make you fall in love, though. We only got one festival day together.”

Nyla’s softness vanished. “See? You ruin everything.”

“I was getting nervous. You looked sweet for a second.”

“I am sweet.”

“Shit, could’ve fooled me.”

She laughed and pushed his shoulder as she passed.

Malcolm looked down at the spot she touched.

I saw it.

I valued my life enough to say nothing.

Landon’s palm settled at my back.

“You ready?”

“I think so.”

Nyla called from ahead of us. “Come on, Noli. My feet are done with everybody.”

“We’re coming.”

Malcolm fell into step beside her. Whatever he said made her look up at him with an expression that promised retaliation.

Landon and I let them move ahead.

By the time we reached the edge of the vendor lot, every step reminded me exactly how many hours I’d spent on my feet.

Landon looked down.

“You tired?”

“A little.”