Page 23 of Press Play

“I’m sorry, what did you say?”

“Oh, nothing, sorry. I’ve been okay, you?”

“I’m actually in town and was wondering if you had any free slots to. . .spend timewith an old friend.”

A chuckle bubbles from my chest. “I’m actually on a break,” I tell her. “I might upload a few solo videos, but that’ll be it.”

“Did something happen?”

“No, I just have company due to unforeseen circumstances.”

“Pity, can I ask you for a favor then?”

“Shoot.”

“I arrived in town earlier than expected, and my hotel can’t accommodate me. Could I stay at your place until I can check in?”

“Uhh.” I respond without thinking.

“What do you mean ‘uhh’?” she asks with an airy laugh.

“No, it’s just that I have company already. I don’t have a spare room.”

“I can sleep in your bed,” she says like it’s not an issue.

“I don’t think?—”

“Come on, Theo. It’s not like we haven’t shared a bed before.”

“Amanda—”

“My friends and I have a party tonight. So, midnight?”

“Can I get a word in?” I raise my voice.

A masculine voice sounds on the other end of the line, and I hear her give a muffled response. Before I can object, she says, “See you then!” and hangs up.

I groan and drag my fingers through my hair. Sighing, I drop my head forward.It’s just one night.

I’m tense when I return to the living room, and Wren looks. . . off. Clinging onto a pillow as if it’s her lifeline, she’s staring out the window, but her eyes are empty. I’m far too familiar with this look. She’s overthinking, and her thoughts are winning.

“Everything okay?”

Her head snaps to me, and she forces a smile. “Yeah, just... thinking about work.”

“You sure?” I don’t believe her for one second.

“I’m fine, really. Let’s eat.” She stands and grabs a sandwich from the table, then returns to her spot.

After grabbing my hoagie, I plop on the couch and remove the paper wrapping. Without cutting it in half, I take a bite out of one end and eat my frustrations away.

Wren grabs the remote and puts on her comfort cartoon. At least the background noise fills the silence.

“Are you okay?” Wren asks cautiously.

As I open my mouth to answer, a knock sounds from the front door, and I drop my head to the back of the couch. “What now?” I groan.

“I’ll get it.” Wren hops up, and her bare feet pad against the hardwood floor.

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