“Of course he likes me; I feed him,” I say lightly, hoping to put an end to this conversation. The last thing my fragile heart needs is hope that my little crush might not be one-sided.
“That’s not what I?—”
“I’m his employee, Mom. And he’s been nothing but professional with me. He took me out to dinner to be kind. That’s all it was.” My words come out a little harsher than I was intending, and I regret them instantly. But it’s too late to take them back now. “Night, Mom,” I say before continuing to climb the stairs.
“Night, Freya. Sleep well.”
I sense her watching me, but I don’t look back. I can’t. If she were look into my eyes, she’d see too much.
I swear, I don’t breathe until I’m safely shut in my childhood bedroom.
Leaning back against it, I tip my head back and close my eyes, giving myself a moment.
Today was…incredible, but it was also a lot on top of a hangover. I’ve got a lot to process.
Dropping my purse onto my bed, I kick off my shoes, and I just pull my sweater off when the sound of my cell buzzing hits my ears.
“Oh shit,” I gasp, realization hitting me.
Rushing over, I pull my cell free and find six messages staring back at me.
Cole: Are you home?
Cole: I really hope you’ve just forgotten to message.
Cole: Freya…
Cole: Don’t make me drive all the way out there to make sure you’re okay.
Cole: I’m serious. If you don’t respond in ten minutes, I’m getting back in the car.
Cole: I’m leaving right now.
My hands tremble as I tap out a reply as fast as I can to stop him.
Freya: No, I’m home. I’m sorry. Please don’t drive all the way out here.
It’s read instantly, and I relax slightly.
God. How the hell would I explain that to my parents?
They’d think he’s crazy.
Or they’d think he cared too much…
Freya: Mom wanted details from our night out. She distracted me.
Freya: I’m sorry.
Cole: What have I told you about apologizing?
All the air rushes from my lungs as I drop onto the edge of my bed. I can hear his voice as clearly as if he were standing right in front of me saying those words.
Freya: I know, but I messed up. I promised to message and I didn’t.
Cole: As long as you’re okay.
Freya: Yep, made it in one piece.
