Chapter 212

Christina's POV My phone buzzed again before I could finish reading Hudson's last message. Hudson: [If I ask properly this time—can we go public?] The screen lit up with those words, simple but heavy with meaning. I could practically feel him through the text—tense, holding his breath, waiting for my answer. I just sat there staring at my phone like an idiot. A minute ago, I'd been complaining about event organizers and telling him to stay away from Rowan Hale. I was ready to say goodnight. And now this? I read his message again, my brain scrambling to catch up. My whole body felt sluggish, like I'd just walked through thick mud. The phone buzzed again. Hudson: [Would you be okay if I tagged you in my next post? As my wife?] Well, that was pretty clear. After what felt like forever, I managed to type: [Let me think.] Hudson: [Okay.] I tossed my phone onto the bed, gave my cheeks a light slap, and sat up straight. Did I want to go public? Yeah, I liked Hudson. More than liked him, if I