Page 88 of Fraud
“Shut up,” I grumbled. “I’m not in love with her.”
“Maybe not yet, but you’re definitely on the way, and if you throw it all away for a stupid job, you’re never going to forgive yourself. And neither will she,” he added.
He was right.
I hated when he was right.
“So, what do I do? Like you said, she’s already moved on,” I reminded him.
“Go fucking get her back,” he commanded.
I stood up, emboldened for maybe the first time since I’d sent Kate away from this very same room. “You’re right!”
“Of course I am. I’m a fucking genius. Now, get the hell out of here.”
“Right,” I said, moving toward the door in a blur.
“Wait.” His hand shot out, stopping me before I could crack open the door. “When was the last time you showered?” he asked before taking a quick look at me. “Or changed your clothes?”
I thought back.
I thought way back.
My brother’s face soured. “Shit, get in the shower before you kill someone with that stank.”
I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror. Disheveled hair, wrinkled clothes, and yep, I definitely smelled. “Good idea.”
“I’m full of good ideas.” He grinned.
“Too bad none of them are worth a dime,” I said as I made my way to the shower, pulling my stained shirt over my head.
“Remind me of that tonight when you’re getting laid.” He laughed.
I shook my head, ignoring his antics.
I had a girl to win back.
I thought about stopping for roses, but then I reconsidered.
That slinging douche bag of a teacher had most likely ruined roses for me indefinitely. Seeing him saunter into that restaurant like he and Kate were already a done deal made my blood boil.
I considered grabbing her a box of chocolates, but where do you get those outside of Valentine’s Day? It didn’t matter honestly.
I was just trying to come up with delay tactics.
Because, deep down, I knew I didn’t deserve this.
I didn’t deserve any of this.
Her, us…a second chance.
Hell, I shouldn’t have even been given a first chance.
It wasn’t fate that had brought us together. It was meddling. I’d placed myself in her path, forced myself in her life.
I should walk away.
But I couldn’t.
