Page 101 of Making It Burn
“I know.But Beau, answer me honestly—do you love him?”
“Yes.”The word came out as a whisper.“So much it hurts.”
“Then you owe it to yourself—and to him—to at least hear what he has to say.”Lisa stood and pulled me up with her.“Now go shower.You smell like sadness and takeout Chinese food.Then you’re going to work.”
“Lisa—”
“No arguments.You can handle being in the same office with Mason for one day.”She pushed me toward the bathroom.“And Beau?Whatever happens with him, you’re going to be okay.I promise.”
I wanted to believe her.
* * *
The office team decorated the office for Christmas with that manic holiday energy that happens right before everyone leaves for break.Someone had brought in cookies shaped like reindeer, there was eggnog in the break room, and Christmas music played softly through the speakers.
Everyone seemed festive and relaxed.
Everyone except me.
I’d showered and put on actual clothes—a suit that felt too tight, too formal, too much like armor.My tie was the red and blue striped one Mason had complimented once, and I immediately regretted wearing it.I didn’t want to look like I was trying.Even though I absolutely was.
Lisa met me at the elevator.“You came.”
“You’re very persuasive.”
“It’s one of my many talents.”She linked her arm through mine.“How are you feeling?”
“Like I’m going to throw up.”
“That’s normal.”She guided me toward our offices.“Mason’s been asking about you all morning.He looks...rough.”
“Good.”
“Beau—”
“I’m kidding.Mostly.”I took a deep breath.“Is he in his office?”
“Last I saw, yeah.”Lisa stopped outside her door.“Do you want me to come with you?”
“No.I need to do this alone.”I squeezed her hand.“Thank you.For everything.”
“That’s what friends are for.”She kissed my cheek.“Now go.And Beau?Be honest.Tell him what you need.Don’t just accept whatever he’s willing to give.”
I nodded and headed down the hallway toward Mason’s office, my heart hammering against my ribs.
His door was open, and I was about to knock when he looked up and saw me.
The expression on his face—relief mixed with fear mixed with something that looked a lot like longing—made my chest ache.
He stood immediately.“Beau.”
“Hi.”
“You came back.”
“Lisa forced me.”
A small smile.“Remind me to thank her.”He glanced behind me at the hallway, where several people were walking past, laughing about something.“Can we talk?Please?”
