Page 51 of Hooked On Him
“Yeah, see you—Wait, but I work tomorrow. And today is Monday.“
“No. You don’t.” He smirks, giving me a wink. “You’ve been through a lot the past few days. Plus, you’re gonna need time to move in after school. So, see you Thursday."
“Okay,” I whisper, blinking in shock. “See you then.”
I can’t remember the last time I had two nights off in a row. I’m grateful he’s giving me the time off. If the room isn’t already taken, and he agrees to rent me the room, I’ll need the time to move some stuff over.
By the time I’m pulling up in my parents' driveway, it’s three in the morning.
I’m dead on my feet as I head into the garage. I stink of burgers and fries, but I don’t care as I kick off my shoes and crawl into my sleeping bag.
Thankfully, I don’t have a class until noon tomorrow, so I can sleep in a little bit and shower before I head to school.
Only downside is, I’d have to postpone my coffee date with Austin, and the idea of that sends a flicker of disappointment through me. I’ve grown to love our coffee dates, and when we started adding lunch dates too, even better.
I think it’s safe to say, he’s my best friend. But don’t tell Cole that, or he’d pout like a big baby and might even threaten to kick Austin’s ass for the honor of being my number one bestie.
Thinking about Austin has me letting out a big sigh. I forgot to text him today. With everything going on, I’ve been so busy. It’s the first time I’ve forgotten. So when I open my phone and see unread texts from him, I feel guilty.
Austin: Hey, you. You okay? You looked kind of distant at lunch
Austin: About to head into practice. School was easy, but pumped for practice. Got to be ready for this week's game. It’s on Thursday this week, so I’m sad you can’t come because I know you're working, but I’ll still kick ass for you!
Austin: I’m going to guess you're busy. Text me when you're free. Hope you had a good day xox.
I bite my lower lip, stomach feeling iffy. He’s so damn sweet, I feel bad for not responding. And for being distant at lunch. He doesn’t know about my apartment issue, at least I don’t think he does, because he hasn’t asked about it. And I didn’t bring it up because I felt like I was putting my issues on him. I didn’t want him to feel bad for me.
Yes, he’s my friend, but this wasn’t his problem. I handled it, and when he asks about it, I’ll tell him.
It’s not like he’s been over to my place before. My living somewhere else doesn’t really have anything to do with our relationship. Or lack thereof.
Something tells me he’s still gonna feel hurt that I didn’t tell him. I’ve gotten to know Austin enough to know he’s probably going to say, “Friends are there for friends no matter how big or little the problem,” or something like that.
Checking the time, I debate on texting him back now or in the morning.
A meow catches my attention. Snicklefritz jumps up onto my lap, letting out deep purrs. “What have you been up to all day?” I ask him, giving him some head scratches as he curls up in my lap. “You seem fine. So that’s good.” I sigh. “Should I text him now?”
Snicklefritz looks up at me and slowly blinks. “I’ll take that as a yes.” I laugh.
Me: Hey. Sorry, I didn’t text you back. Today has been crazy. Took a shift for a co-worker with a sick kid. I know it’s late, but I didn’t want you to think I was ignoring you. Anyways, I’m going to bed now. I’m drained. I’m gonna sleep in a bit in the morning, so I’m gonna have to miss coffee. I’ll make it up to you, though! Night xox
After I send the text, I take a look at the flyer again. “Looks like we might have a new place to stay, Snicklefritz.” I run my fingers through his soft fur.
I should wait until the morning to reach out to this guy, but I’m slightly panicking that someone else might end up taking the room if I don’t let my interest be known.
So, I put the number into my phone and send the guy a quick text, and tell him to text or call back if the place is available and if I’m able to come look.
Once that’s done, I plug my phone into the wall on my dad’s tool shelf and crawl into my sleeping bag.
“Yeah.” I sigh heavily as Snicklefritz curls back into my side. “We need to get out of here ASAP.”
Here’s to hoping for a text back in the morning with good news.
Chapter 12
Austin
The fear that Levi is going to show up at my apartment, see whose place it is, then turn around and leave, has put me in a nervous state all day.
