Page 109 of New York Love Stories: Vol. 2

He goes into the kitchen with this takeout container and throws it away in the recycling. “It means you tell me.”

Thinking long and hard about this, I find there’s still so much going on. “Do we tell our friends at the reception?” I want to dance with you and kiss you. Weddings are so romantic, but . . . Bob will be there. How does that work for us?”

Though I feel I should see the debate that always wars in his eyes when we bring up this topic, nothing but calm lies in them tonight. “I’ll end it before then.”

“I hate that you’re in this spot and would never want to jeopardize your dreams.” I move into his strong arms once again and close my eyes. I don’t know if what I’m doing is right or wrong, but I guess I’m agreeing to this craziness. “We can play it by ear and aim for the reception. If you and Marlow aren’t settled by then, we wait a few more days.”

“You’re okay with that?” Bending his head down, he looks into my eyes. “Are you sure?”

Smiling, I reply, “What’s another two weeks in the scheme of things?”

~ Twelve Days Later ~

Jackson loads my suitcase into the back of the SUV and then comes to stand right next to me . . .and Rad, leaving no room or privacy to say or do what we really want. He asks, “Ready to roll? The Hamptons await.”

Rad stares at me like he might miss something if his gaze deviates, so I turn to Jackson. “I’ll be right there.”

Crossing his arms over his chest, Jackson says, “I can wait.”

“Wait in the car, St. James,” Rad snaps. Rad’s tone strikes harshly, surprising both Jackson and me.

Jackson side-eyes him. “Can’t say I’m upset you’re not riding with us, Wellington. Glad you’re staying behind in Manhattan for the night. Wouldn’t want to be stuck with you and that mood you’re wearing like a chip on your shoulder for the next few hours.” He returns to the vehicle, opening the back door before passing Marlow tucked in the passenger’s seat.

I look at Rad and reach to touch his chest. “It’s okay, Rad. He doesn’t know why you’re upset, and it’s not his fault anyway. So don’t take it out on him.” I lower my hand, remembering that we’re still a secret.No PDA allowed.

“It’s not normal not to be able to say goodbye to my girlfriend.”

I love hearing him call me his girlfriend. We’re not in situations that warrant introductions, but when he calls me his girlfriend, even in private, I realize how far he’s come. Once a proud eternal bachelor turned loyal boyfriend, I don’t take a day with him for granted. “I wish you didn’t have court tomorrow.”

“Don’t worry. I’m packed and will leave as soon as I get home.”

We’re supposed to be two friends saying a simple goodbye, but like him, I feel the weight of what we really are. Hiding it means that I don’t get to hug him or touch his chest when we’re talking. It means no kissing, and all that adds up to is missing him before I’ve even left.

Marlow rolls down her window and pokes her head out. “Kiss goodbye already, and let’s get on the road.” Her laughter trails across the sidewalk.

I roll my eyes at her teasing, and sigh. “They’re quite the pair.”

Finally, Rad smiles. I’m glad to see his bad mood lifting. “Theydon’t know how spot-on they are when it comes to us. That’s what makes it funny.” Running his hands through his hair, he says, “I can’t wait for this to be over, though, so we can just be ourselves.”

“Me too.” I force my feet to take a step back because it’s so hard to leave him. If I don’t start now, I’ll never leave.

I reach my hand out once more, knowing full well that it will touch the air. But I’ll take that air if it touched him.

Rad glances at the SUV, and then his hand reaches for me, our fingertips catching just before I turn and walk away. I climb into the back seat and shut the door before we say something we can’t take back—like three-word phrases—or reveal more to the others than we can share.

Just as the vehicle pulls away from the curb, I take one last look because I won’t get to see him again until the wedding, and I want to memorize everything about him. Rolling down my window, I sit forward and shove my arm out to wave. “See you at the altar.”

34

Rad

See you at the altar . . .

I scoff. Tealey didn’t mean it literally. . . or did she?

Focus, Wellington.Get your work done so you can go to the Hamptons and see your girl.

I’m not sure where the past two weeks went, but time is flying when I need it to stand still until I’m caught up.

---