Page 45 of Hiding for the Holidays
“I’m so sorry; this must be a hard time of year for you.”
I nod. “Yeah, we loved Christmas. We’d do it all, the movies, the music, the baking, the car tours of holiday lights, the town tree lighting. My dad died the year before, and I have no siblings. So now she’s gone, I’m the only one left. How can I enjoy a holiday that used to bring me so much happiness when all I can think about is the people I used to celebrate it with?” I sniffle as a few tears escape and roll down my cheek.
“Baby, come here.” That name hits me right in the chest, and I tilt my head back and see Asher’s anguished face as he reaches both arms towards me. I decide that at this moment, heisn’t my boss; he’s my friend, and that’s something I haven’t had in a long time. Something I need right now.
So, I crawl to his side and rest my head against his chest as he holds me tight. I feel his lips press to the top of my head and close my eyes.
I think about how he burst into my room like my own personal G.I. Joe. I was glad not to be in that scary place anymore. Being here, in his home and his arms, I finally feel safe. But the question remains, how did he hear my scream?
After a moment, the burning question bursts from my lips. “What were you doing in my building?”
His breath seems to catch for a second as his body grows ridged, but he quickly answers, “I was worried about you.”
“So you what? Were camping outside my door?”
“Basically. The first few days, I stayed outside. But the weather drove me in, and when I saw the type of people hanging out in the hall, I parked myself in front of your door.”
Holy shit! I can’t believe he’s been right outside my door every night. “You’ve been sleeping against my door every night?” He shrugs, and I grab his hand, giving it a firm squeeze. “If you told me you were out there, I would have let you in. You didn’t have to do that, Asher.”
“I wanted to, Clara. And I need you to know that you’re not alone anymore. You have me and the other two. I know we haven’t known you for long, but the more I get to know you, the more I know I need you in my life.”
My breath hitches at his last statement. “Y-you mean Iron Oaks needs me?” I ask for clarification.
“No, baby.Ineed you. Not as an employee, and not even as just a friend.”
I lift my head to finally look at him and I swallow heavily as I try to absorb his words.
“Asher, what are you?—”
“Shh…” he presses his finger against my lips to silence my question. “You are going through something right now, and it’s not just about your mom. Just know that I’m here when you’re ready to open up about it. Now, lie back down.”
He gives me a slight tug, and I let my body relax, leaning my head back against his chest as I watch the TV.
I can’t believe what just happened. Helikesme. And he’s going to wait for me? I wasn’t even sure exactly what he meant, but he was right. I didn’t feel ready for anything with Scott still looming over me. But as my body melts against Asher’s, I can’t help but notice how comfortable this feels. I could definitely get used to going to sleep like this every night.
But what about Leo and Grant? Could I really date Asher and continue to see them every day? My mind runs in circles as the movie plays on until I finally drift off to sleep.
Chapter 15
Leo
Istand in the doorway of Clara’s new room and try to contain my jealousy as I watch Asher and her sleep wrapped in each other’s arms.
Both of them look so content. It’s rare to see Asher without a frown. Before Clara showed up in our lives, it was what he wore more often than not. He also used to spend an enormous chunk of his time at the punching bags, but I’ve barely seen him touch them this past week.
I sigh and move to the bathroom to shower and get ready for work.
He deserves to have someone like her in his life, someone who’s good for him. But where does that leave me? Stuck watching them together for the rest of our lives? It would be pure torture. She’s gotten under my skin in a way I deeply enjoy, and I don’t want to let her go. But could I really try to make her choose me over Asher?
I picture her laughter in one of those moments when she lets down her walls; it pulls at something in my chest. I’ve dated before, even had a couple of girlfriends, but none of them hadmade me feel this way before. Is this what love feels like? It can’t be; it’s far too soon for that. But they say that when you know, you know?
I finish my shower and get dressed, returning to find the two of them haven’t moved at all.
“Shit,” Grant hisses, joining me in Clara’s doorway.
“Yeah.”
“I’ve gotta go open the gym, do you want to come?”
