Page 138 of Reconciling With the Rival

“I have no idea. I asked him at dinner before all this, and he didn't really give me an answer as to what he wants. I don’t think I’ll bring it up again.” I can't get rejected again. It’s fucking humiliating. Plus, Leo has always said from the beginning he’s not the type of guy who does relationships.

I thought I could show him he’s worth more to me than one night, but I guess I haven't done that, so of course he wouldn't want me for longer.

“But what if he brings it up?” Paige asks, a hint of something in her tone.

“Then I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it.” I can’t idle on this topic, or I’ll go crazy. All I need to worry about right now is getting home and getting back to work.

Though I’ve started to be uncomfortable at work; I don’t feel like I can be myself because of this entire thing with Brody hanging over my head.

My life feels like one giant mess I can't clean up. I’m really thankful my sister, Dad, and I worked everything out before I left. If I had that on my plate too, I think my body would explode from stress.

“How long until your flight?” Oliver asks me.

“It’s in the morning. I should probably head back and start packing.” I don’t have much, but I always like being at the airport early, especially since I have to go through customs.

“Well, we can stay on the phone and talk until you get back safely,” Hads says as she and Grant settle onto their couch.

I smile to myself, thankful for my friends during this weird period in my life. “Perfect. Now, you guys can update me on you. I feel like all I do lately is talk about myself.”

“Yeah, and you should do it more, Ells,” Grant tells me. “We love hearing about your life.”

“And I love hearing about yours, so hit me with every small detail about the last week, and don’t leave anything out,” I say to them as the breeze blows across my face on my walk back.

I can’t wait to go home, but for some reason, leaving England tomorrow feels like a chapter closing on Leo and me.

I guess it’s time to grab the next monkey bar and move on. I knew it couldn't last forever, but I sure wished it would have ended differently than this.

Leo: Thank you for coming. I hope your flight goes smoothly.

Ella: Thanks.

Leo: Is the seat okay?

Ella: No.

Leo: Really?

Ella: Of course it’s okay. It’s first class, Leo. I could have flown economy.

Leo: Well, I didn't want you to be uncomfortable on the way back. It’s a long flight.

Ella: Thanks, I guess.

Leo: Why didn't you say goodbye before you left?

Ella: You’re spending time with your family. I didn't want to intrude. You guys have done enough for me.

Leo: You’re not an intrusion, Ella. Far from it.

Leo: Can I see you when I get back?

Ella: I’ll see you at work, Leo. But our pact is over, so there isn't much to talk about.

Leo: You know that’s not true.

Ella: I don’t know anything other than you should spend time with your family. I should be the least of your worries, Zimmerman.

Leo: You’re right. Text Alissa when you land so I know you’re safe. Is someone picking you up from the airport?

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