“Because deep down you’re not really the playboy you make out to be. I think the loose and free Bradley Lucas has left the building, and he’s saving himself for something more substantial and meaningful, like Chelsea.”
I admit. I have her on a pedestal, but she’s not into me inthatway. Even if she was, sex complicates everything. Then one of us would develop feelings, and then it gets messy. I don’t do messy. I would never want to hurt anyone either, and apparently I do that a lot because I don’t reciprocate feelings. I don’t mean to, I just haven’t felt a spark with anyone that I’d want to make a life with. Well, maybe I have daydreamed once or twiceabout Chelsea and me, but that was just a fleeting moment. Not something that would be smart to consider, given we’ve been friends for so long. She needs someone stable in her life, not a dick like me, who used to have a little black book. I say used to because, at some point, you have to grow up.
That whole scene gets pretty old fast, and I can’t say I miss the partying.
“Don’t you have work to do?” That’s all I can come up with to his response.
He shakes his head. “You just need seasoning, Bradley.” He pats me on the shoulder like some Obi-Wan self-help guru. “I used to be the same until I met my Bobby. When you meet the one, you won’t live and breathe anyone else, that’s how you’ll know.”
My mouth opens, but he’s already leaving, finger waving as he leaves me with that little chestnut. Ass. I don’t need to be thinking about Chelsea in that way at all, but now I am. Thanks to him.
Like clockwork, my phone dings, and I glance at it. My heart rate kicks up a notch when I see who it is.
Chelsea
I have a favor to ask
I swallow hard and recite to myself:We’re just friends.
Me
Anything
Chelsea
I’m stuck for help with Deaton next week bc Mom and Dad are away. I don’t suppose you could collect him from school on Friday? It’s the only day I don’t have help and I’m baking Mason and Bobby’s cake
Me
Of course. Consider it done. I’ve heard great things about this cake
Chelsea
LOL I’m sure. It’s gonna be fun
Chelsea
I also wouldn’t ask if I wasn’t urgent
Me
Don’t be silly. You know my day is flexible. It’ll be fun. I can take him to get a milkshake or something, maybe we can test the cake out after that
Chelsea
You don’t have to do that, but thank you, you’re a lifesaver. Cake sampling isn’t optional, I need to make it perfect
Me
You will
Chelsea
I really appreciate it
Me
Anytime
