Page 13 of Friends Rucked Up

“The verdict is still out. I’ll get onto the buildings manager first thing tomorrow and hopefully you’ll have your apartment back to yourself. Then, I can go back to reading in my own bed.” Hopefully, that was a smooth change of subject.

“There’s no rush for you to leave.” He sounds so easy going about it even though he’s been giving mixed signals. I guess this is just another one.

“You’ve been a great host. Thanks for putting up with me this long.” Instead of going around in circles with the same arguments, I let my worries go and thank him like a good friend would.

He turns his lips down for a second before he speaks, “That’s bullshit. I’ve been a mediocre host at best.” He runs his hands over his face. “You know what. I’m hoping you stay a few more days so I can make it up to you.”

“Woah. You don’t need to go completely overboard, you might cause yourself an injury,” I joke, making us both laugh. I’m glad he’s cheered up even if it’s only temporary.

“If this was Groundhog Day and I got a do-over, I’d make sure you’d beg to stay longer rather than practically running from my bed.”

“I never understood that film. One day can’t really change a lifetime of history.” I close down my phone and place it on the nightstand.

“It could. All it takes is one good or bad memory to set a chain reaction of events.” He props himself up on one arm seeming invested in the idea.

“Like what? There’s nothing you could do in twenty-four hours that would make me think differently of you.” I shake my head with confidence. He might be my brother’s friend first, but we’ll always have a connection.

“That sounds like a challenge.” He has a determined expression mixed with mischief.

This is the Alfie that’s been missing over the last few days. The one I knew as a kid.

“I guess it is.” I play along, excited to see where this is going.

“Okay. Tomorrow I’m going to be the best roommate you’ve ever had.” He nods like he’s agreeing with himself.

I laugh. “Supposing we both know I’ve never shared a room before, I think you’ll easily win best roommate of the year.”

“Baby, I’m going to have you eating out of my palm.”

He’s never given me a pet name before, but I try not to overthink it’s meaning. I shake my head. “There’s no way we’re going to be closer than we already are in one day.”

Growing up may have taken some of the fun out of our relationship, but we still have a strong bond. There’s nothinghe can say which would push me away. Even his recent mood swings don’t affect how I feel about him.

“Watch this space,” he says, bursting with energy for the challenge.

I’m excited to see if we can put some of the fun back into our relationship. “I will.”

Chapter Six

Alfie

I’m determined to show Saylor I’m not whatever crazy person I’ve been over the last few days. Today is a fresh start, and I’m ready to bring my A game.

I slip from the bed while trying not to overthink the cuddling Saylor and I were doing when I woke up. Friends can cuddle and it doesn’t have to mean anything more than that. It’s not a reason for me to freak out. She doesn’t stir as I get out of bed and pull on some jogging clothes. I’ve no reason to linger when I’ve got so much energy to burn.

Quietly, I head out to the streets below. I’m earlier than usual and I use the time to push myself harder. I complete my regular route twice over. Sweat drips off my back as I get into my grove. I pass the local bakery a few streets away and pick up two bacon rolls.

Running water echoes through my apartment when I get home. Saylor’s in the shower and I grab a towel from my gym bag to wipe down my face. It’ll do until I can get a proper wash in the bathroom. Her fresh clothes are laid out on the bed, andI use the opportunity to trade out her underwear. There’s no chance I’m missing the opportunity for her to wear my boxers. Call it personal torment, or emotional teasing, but I’m a sucker for punishment. Neatly, I pile up her things on the bed before leaving to make a pot of coffee.

I place a filter in the machine, then add the water to brew. The smell of coffee assaults my senses as the water sieves through. A few minutes later, Saylor comes into the kitchen with a towel wrapped around her hair.

“I hope you don’t mind me borrowing your boxers again. They were on the bed.” She pulls at the band of her trousers letting it snap back into place.

“It’s totally fine. Not a problem at all.” I smile to myself, happy my plan worked. I point to the coffee and bacon roll. “Breakfast is served. Take a seat and I’ll get you a plate.”

She pulls out one of the breakfast bar stools and takes a seat at the countertop. Her smile is contagious as she looks up at me. “Thanks. You didn’t have to go through all this trouble.”

“I wanted to do something nice for you. Besides, I was passing the shop anyway.” I love that she looks so impressed.

---