Page 133 of The Friend Situation

“Lex”—my voice comes out like a warning, firm but gentle—“sometimes, we’re the tortoise and not the hare.”

She slightly nods, telling me she understands. I’m in this for the long haul, for as long as it takes Carlee to wake up and see I’m right in front of her, waiting.

The first time we spoke, I felt a shift—a distinct awareness that things between us were different. To know one another yet remain complete strangers was a curious paradox I’d never experienced before.

She changed my life, and I’m grateful for the chance to know her—the real her. She guards her heart, but not entirely. There are fleeting moments when her vulnerable side slips through the cracks, revealing glimpses of the woman beneath the armor, especially when we’re alone, and the walls between us crumble to rubble.

Fuck. My eyes linger on her as she laughs while speaking to Lexi. A warm smile pulls at my lips, and an undeniable pang tells me she’s the one. But even in this quiet connection, I recognizethat if I reveal my feelings right now, she’ll bolt, like she’s done to every man she’s ever been with since Samson.

I want to destroy that fortress around her heart and rescue the princess locked inside.

Lexi gasps, her eyes widening as she stares at me in disbelief. She sawthe look. The problem with Lexi is her perception is razor-sharp. When she’s around, nothing escapes her. She catches things that should remain hidden. I shake my head as words form on the tip of her tongue.

“Shh, Lex.” I cover my mouth with my finger—a silent plea to stop pushing this topic further. She plays matchmaker too hard.

Easton glares at me, the intensity of his gaze confirming that he caughtthe looktoo. It’s like he and Lexi have already unraveled the threads of my secret.

I’m falling in love with Carlee, and I can’t help it.

All I can do is smirk.

With a stolen glance, I can see Carlee’s emotions. For now, she’s treading carefully, and I hope she finds the courage to allow herself to fall in love again.

I trace a circle along the outside of her arm, feeling the warmth of her skin beneath my fingertips.

Easton wraps his arm around Lexi, drawing her closer, and he captures her lips in an eager kiss. “I love you.”

“Love you.” Her smile brightens the car as she leans against him.

They’re cute together, a perfect blend of affection and genuine connection as they talk about their day. Right now, they’re lost in each other’s orbit.

Carlee turns to me. “Is that our future?”

“Itcanbe. That’s your decision,” I reply, offering her a nonchalant shrug, though inside, my heart races with the weight of unspoken feelings.

“Mine?” She raises an eyebrow, skepticism undeniable. “Are you sure about that?”

“Yes.” I nod, a smirk playing at the corners of my lips as she studies me with that intense focus of hers.

She’s waiting for me to crack a joke to lighten the mood, but I hold back, my expression serious.

The limo comes to a halt. When we exit an onslaught of camera flashes bursts into our faces, blinding us.

Everyone says my name, trying to grab my attention.

I hold on to Carlee as I gently guide her toward Asher’s stunning townhouse in Midtown. I’ve tried to buy it from him countless times, but he’s always turned me down. It has a charming cottage feel, complete with a quaint backyard. It’s rare in the heart of the city.

“This place is gorgeous,” Carlee whispers, her voice barely above a breath as we step inside.

She soaks in the intricate details of the architecture—the high ceilings, lined with elegant moldings, and the long, slender windows that invite moonlight to dance across the space. A cozy fireplace casts a golden glow that chases away the chill of the outside world. It’s peaceful here. The only sound is the distant echoes of laughter and chatter drifting from upstairs.

“It has five stories,” I explain.

I take her hand and lead her down a secluded hallway, the dim lighting casting shadows around us. As I glance back, I catch sight of Easton and Lexi, their faces lit up with encouragement, beaming at me.

“We’ll meet you in there,” I say, my voice steady and reassuring.

When we’re finally alone, I stop and stand in front of her.

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