Page 46 of Crazy About Love (All About Love)

“Maybe.”

She tilts her head to the side, her teeth playing with the inside of her lip yet again. Without the added pressure of who I wanted her to be tonight, the air feels much more breathable—I think for both of us.

“Well,” she says, holding out a friendly hand, “I paid for a kiss. I still want it.”

I slap my palm against hers and we stand up. She taps her cheek, making it hard not to smile. I lean in quick, press my lips to her cold skin. It’s nice—completely void of raging amounts of guilt. There’s no pressure to take this kiss and try to make something out of it. She drops back down on her heels and smiles at me.

“I really hope you get him,” I tell her.

“I hope you get her, Alex with ac.”

I cringe a little at the nickname, finally feeling able to express how I really feel about it, and let out a sigh. “Me too.”

THREE WEEKS, ONE DAY AGO

Theresa has sent you an instant message.

FRIDAY 8:31A.M.

You left.

8:33A.M.

I had to.

8:33A.M.

Early shift?

8:34A.M.

Among other reasons.

8:34A.M.

Was I that bad at it?

8:34A.M.

You know you weren’t.

8:49A.M.

Did I hurt you?

8:52A.M.

No.

8:52A.M.

Do we need a redo?

9:10A.M.

You there?

9:10A.M.

---