"Hi," Jayden replied, before stiffening as Olivia hugged him. He made a movement to hug her back by placing an arm over her shoulder, but it was awkward and uncomfortable. He hadn't been expecting her to hug him, and the physical contact made Jayden - who normally never feels out of place - feel at a loss for words. He struggled with what to say for a moment, starting the car as a diversion. There were supposed to be boundaries, weren't there? As a child, Olivia never touched him. And even though she was no longer a child, there was no reason for her to touch him now. He was still icky Jayden - even he had to admit that there were parts of his personality that never aged beyond middle school. He probably still had cooties.
Jayden's conscience was nagging at his mind. He felt guilty, even though he knew he had no reason. He had not done anything except roll down a window and give back a hug. Yet he kept feeling like he was doing something improper, something wrong. He should have talked to Aaron first. At least he had told Madeleine; she hadn't seemed concerned. He ran a hand through his hair and started driving.
"How are you?" he finally asked, glancing over to her and giving her what he hoped was his best smile, despite his inner turmoil. "It's been a long time since the last time we saw each other. What's been going on?"