Page 79 of You and Me, For Real
After disclosing my depressing news about my apartment yesterday, he helped me arrange a moving company to pack up all my belongings and have them delivered to a storage facility. I specified a few items I couldn’t live without, and they were delivered later that afternoon.
Because my ankle was still healing, he insisted we spend the day at home relaxing. He pampered me more than if I’d stayed at a five-star resort. He delivered all my meals on a tray, cooked mostly by Luke—seeing as Griffin burnt the toast he made me that morning. We spent the majority of the day outside lounging by the pool. The cool water felt nice on my swollen ankle.
The dogs loved it and had a blast chasing each other all over the yard. Later in the evening, Griffin invited Wren over and she brought Churro. It was adorable watching all five of them play together given their varying sizes.
Wren graciously offered for me to stay with her. While I was hesitant, given we’re virtually strangers, she was so insistent that it’d be no imposition and that it’d be nice to have the company, I couldn’t say no.
I stayed at Wren’s last night. It was really nice, but a small part of me wished for Griffin’s presence next to me in bed…despite how inappropriate that would be, given he has a girlfriend—no matter how fake their relationship is. Because the more time we spent together yesterday, the more it truly feelslike we’re in a relationship. Griffin felt likemyboyfriend. My cheeks heat just thinking about him and the odds we might kiss sooner than later.
Wren rushes around to face me. “What are you thinking about? You’re blushing like a schoolgirl. You better dish the deets right now!” She guides me to the vanity and onto the large ottoman. We sit side by side. “I saw the way Griffin was making eyes at you earlier today. Is that what this face is about?”
A giggle surfaces.
I’m unaccustomed to this girlfriend-dishing business. Even in high school, I only had a handful of friends, and most were just classmates. I never really brought anyone to my house—too embarrassed for anyone to see how my real life was when the cameras weren’t rolling, basically being forgotten. That, and I didn’t know who to trust. Too many people throughout my teens sought my friendship only for the fame that came with it.
“Nothing. It’s nothing.”
She leans back, eyebrows raised. “That’s it? That’s all I get? Come on, girl, you can trust me.” She bumps my shoulder with hers. “There’s something going on between you two, isn’t there?”
My lips upturn, my cheeks burning hotter. “Maybe. I don’t know.” I groan and cover my face with my hands, careful not to ruin Wren’s meticulous makeup job.
“Maybe? I’ll take that!”
“But what about Scarlet?” I speak through my fingers, too embarrassed to face her. I’m not sure if she’s one of the few who knows about Griffin’s contracted relationship with her, and I don’t want to break Griffin’s trust.
She waves her hand and stands. “Oh please, even I can tell that’s a publicity stunt.”
I pop my head up, uncovering my face. “Really?”
She goes to the counter, packing away her makeup in their neat and orderly compartments. “Of course. Anyone who knowsthem personally can tell there’s no genuine chemistry between the two of them. Unlike you guys,” she singsongs.
I bite my lower lip to prevent smiling too wide, unsure if I should encourage her assumption or not.
She leans toward the mirror, fixing some eyelashes with her eyelash comb. “Their show will air soon, and their relationship will fizzle out. You’ll see.” She turns, her hip resting against the counter. “This’ll be a big night for you.”
“I know. There’s a ninety percent chance I’ll throw up before the night’s over.”
“Oh, nonsense. You’ll be fine!”
If only she really knew what a recluse I’ve become in the last five years and how uncomfortable being around people in general makes me. The fame only adds another layer of complication.
“Think of all the connections you’ll make for your rescue. Tonight can push you closer to opening those doors. Just don’t be afraid to talk to people about it.”
Is she a mind reader?
I laugh. “Yeah, easy for you to say.”
She clasps a makeup case closed and slips it into a drawer. “Griffin told me you guys set up a new social media account. That’ll be the perfect plug for you.”
“I hope so.”
Panic creeps in, making my palms sweat. Anxiety churns in my stomach. We set up the account under my blog title,The Furry Godmother, to help preserve my anonymity. But I know all too well how easily someone’s privacy can be invaded. The thought of people knowing who I am makes my brow bead with sweat. We posted my first clip today of me giving basic commands to Teddy. It barely made a blip in interactions. Truth be told, I’m relieved.
“I’ll keep an eye out and introduce you to anyone I know. Trust me, we’ll have that rescue of yours fully funded by the end of the night—just you watch.”
My heart thrums to an upbeat rhythm, nervousness crawling up my throat. I’m not exactly the best at people-ing…and asking for money? Gross. The idea appalls me. But after multiple grant rejections, this is the next best option. I look down, intertwining my fingers.
Wren bends in front of me as she puts on a final touch of makeup.
