Page 113 of Lucky In Love

“And pass on a moment to learn from you. I’ll stay.”

“You know damn well, that I would use this option.”

“So you’re cursing now?”

“Can you leave?”

“Why?”

“Let me make this clear Julian, I don’t want you here.”

“I hear you, but I don’t believe you.”

The wind howls and the lights in the room flicker. I began a backup so that I don’t lose my progress in case the power goes out. Julian looks up at the ceiling observing the access points. At least that’s what I think he’s doing, because that’s what I did as soon as I stepped into the room.

“Have you started?–,”

“Yep,” I answer not wanting him to ask anything. “I know what I’m doing, Julian.”

“I didn’t say you didn’t.”

“You don’t have to say it. I think you should leave before the storm starts.”

“And leave you here?”

“I’ll be fine, I’m fifty percent done. I’ll be done in thirty minutes.”

“I’ll leave in thirty minutes.”

I’m so irritated by this man I wish he would leave. I can feel him staring at me.

“Julian?”

“What’s up?”

“Can you please leave?”

“Why? Give me a reason to leave.”

“Because I do not like you.” I say this with my whole chest while making eye contact. This man smiles at my admission and is not affected in any way. I on the other hand, am affected. My body heat started at my neck and is moving south, and Julian knows it.

“Still, you’re not convincing.” The lights flicker again, but there’s thunder associated with it. I close my eyes, silently praying to God and St. Patrick that I complete this install without any problems.

“Amen.” We both say in unison making eye contact. There’s something there, I don’t know what, but the energy surrounding us is evident.

Chapter Ten

“How much longer?”

I try not to look at Julian when I speak, but his presence is demanding eye contact, and I don’t like it.

“Eighty percent completed. Eighty-seven.” I say as I begin to pack up.

“It shouldn’t be much longer. I guess I can leave.”

“Finally.” I say and Julian laughs. “I need to back this up and test the site, and I’ll be on my way home.

“No Saturday night plans? Julian asks. I ignore the question for obvious reasons, but he just won’t leave me alone.

---