Page 54 of The Girlfriend Game
After the initial video footage of the confrontation leaked, which made me look like the bad guy, Glen tracked down the full extent of the argument, which proved it was that guy who acted like a douchebag, not me, thereby squashing his claims I harassed and antagonized him.
“No lies, Marek. I swear. I’m living my best life.”
“Fine,” he mutters grudgingly. “And by the way, the club and team have scheduled an event in November to recognize some of the individuals instrumental in our team’s success over the past year. It hasn’t been announced yet, but one of the award recipients will be Dr. Rush. If you’re willing, I’d like you to share your story and the progress you’ve made with her support. How she inspired you to create your foundation.”
Words get lodged in my throat from the emotional left hook Marek throws out there. On one hand, I’m thrilled for Kendall, and she deserves this recognition more than anyone else I know. She works hard to help her patients with their struggles with mental health, as well as offering hope and service to the community. She’s truly the most inspiring person I’ve ever met.
But there’s a part of me that’s nervous about getting up on stage to expound on the many virtues of Dr. Kendall Rush because it will become clear to everyone how much I care for her, in more ways than just a therapist. My desire for Kendall will be written all over my face.
“Oh, wow. That’s great. Good for her. She absolutely deserves it.” I cough. “But I don’t know, Marek. Maybe you should pick someone else. I’m not the best public speaker.”
Marek laughs heartily. “You’re joking, right? Wasn’t it just a few weeks back when you were interviewed for that segment on GMA for your charity work with the new foundation? You had the audience eating out of the palm of your hand. You’re being ridiculous. And I won’t take no for an answer.”
Groaning inwardly, I realize I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place. Do I tell Marek the truth and expose that I’ve been secretly seeing Kendall?
My silence and reservation must trigger something for Marek because he suddenly lets out a curse of annoyance. “Goddammit, Forester. You slept with her, didn’t you? Jesus H. Christ. I should’ve known you couldn’t keep your dick in your pants.”
“Hey,” I snort. “I take exception to that, man. And it isn’t like that at all. Trust me. It didn’t happen the way you think it did.”
Marek scoffs out an irritated sound of disgust. “Right.”
I try quickly backpedaling, hoping he’ll believe me. For Kendall’s sake. “Seriously, Marek. It’s not what you think. Ansel told me about this blind dating app and I joined up. Without knowing anything about who the other was, Kendall and I began chatting together in May after we ended up matching. Anyway, when we did meet up in person and found out who the other was, Kendall immediately called things off.”
There’s a pause on the other end. “Okay, if that’s the case, then why are we discussing this if she sent you packing?”
I chuckle. “What can I say? I guess I’m too charming to resist.”
