Page 11 of Hard To Stay

She straightened her shoulders, and I immediately noticed the change in her tone. “I promise I’ll call him today.”

I threw her my best 500 megawatt smile, hoping it would put her at ease. “Good.” I said awkwardly, not wanting this conversation to end.

She took a step towards me and completely surprised me when she planted a feather- light kiss on my cheek. “Thanks for going out of your way. I’m really glad I met you. I could use more friends like you.”

Friend? Are you fucking kidding me? She just drop-kicked me into the friend zone.

I let her words linger, not liking them at all.

Masking my disappointment, I gave her a half smile. “I’m glad I was able to help.” I glanced at my watch again. “Shit, I really need to go. Don’t forget to call Sawyer.” I started walking backwards calling out. “What time do you get off?”

She paused for a moment as if she was thinking it over. “Six o’clock.” she confirmed, even though I already knew the answer. I had sent Abby a text last night asking for her work schedule.

I wanted to reach out and give her some kind of touch to reassure her that she would be okay, but my hands were too damned clammy and I didn’t want her to notice how nervous I was around her. So I played it cool. “Good, I’ll be here waiting when you get out.”

“Are you sure?”

“Positive. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to run.”

“See you later.” She smiled, waving playfully over her shoulder as she walked through the revolving door. I stood there like an idiot watching her blue cotton sundress float in the morning breeze, checking out what appeared to be a perfect ass.

“I can’t wait.” I said, realizing I was totally screwed.

---