Page 50 of My Turn Petal
I’m not going anywhere. She doesn’t know I waited three years for her. I didn’t care. She was worth it but the timing wasn’t.
Are we faking it?
Because I don’t. I don’t even know how.
“Earth to Theo,” Nick gives me an expectant look, looking like a younger version of Brad Pitt from the movieSevenFrankie likes to watch.
I stop, “I’m not feeling like celebrating today,” and give the bag a hard hook.
Knowing me well enough, he questions, “What really happened?”
“Nothing, I’ll figure it out.”
“Come on… you can tell me,” he rests his hands on his hips.
“I’m seeing someone.”
The look of surprise on his face is slightly funny, “You do?”
“Yeah,” I shrug.
“Theo Roberts is finally seeing someone after three years with no dates.” He pronounces every word. “I need to sit.”
“You’re in the gym, grab gloves, and punch a bag or something.” I crack my neck, hold the punching bag, and kick it with my knees.
“Who is she?”
I don’t answer because he’ll know it in minutes.
“Your neighbor!”
Oh fuck, why did I tell him I have a crush on my neighbor?
His mouth is agape, and his inhales are auditable, “Does she know?” he questions.
“Of course not. I haven’t done it for three years.”
“But you were damn good at it and we both know you stopped because of her.”
I huff and resume punching the bag again.
“You’re so romantic even though you never told her anything, kept your distance but still managed to be around her. I would’ve married you if I wasn’t already married,” he is still blurting and not punching.
I tsk, “You’re not my type.”
“You’re not mine either, how unfortunate.” He sighs. “Butshe isyour type, did you invite her to my party?”
I step away from the bag and grab my towel. “Yes.”
“And…”
“She’s coming,” I reply.
“Holy crap!” He spreads his arms wide, “I will finally get to meet our mystery girl.”
I wipe my face with the towel, “Slow down, and don’t you dare embarrass me.”
“Scout’s honor.” He presses three fingers to his chest.
