I think back to the things he said about Kendra. And how his work always comes first and he doesn’t have room in his life for a relationship.
“Why did you ask me to stay?”
“Honestly? I don’t know,” he says. “You’re strong. You hold yourown. You’re gorgeous and intelligent, and I enjoy talking to you. And it probably didn’t hurt that you live a thousand miles away.”
Yet here I am, like a stupid girl, pining for him in my own quiet way.
So foolish.
“I need to go, Sienna,” I say quickly.
She must read my tone because she sighs. “I’m here if you need me.”
“I know.”
“I’m going to say it once more—I’m here if you need me. You can call me at any time. You can text me. Or email. Or send a smoke signal, but I don’t really know how to read those.”
I grin. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”
“It’s what friends do.” She pauses to see if I’ll respond, but I don’t. “Bye, Blaire.”
“Goodbye.”
I hold the phone in my hand and look at the water. It ripples back and forth with a levity that I wish I could absorb.
“Don’t get yourself all messed up,” I whisper. “You’re a grown woman. You’re capable of enjoying this week and going home and resuming your life in Chicago. You are in control.”
Saying it aloud helps.
I turn to pick up my computer to go inside when my phone buzzes in my hand. I look down.
Holt: Want to do something fun tonight?
Holt’s words are printed across the screen.
My heartbeat quickens as I type out a response.
Me: Depends on how you define fun.
Holt: I might have tickets to the Kelvin McCoy concert.
I gasp.
Me: You do not.
Holt: I might.
Me: I might be jealous!
Holt: I won’t be out of the office in time to see the opening acts. But if you want to see the headliner, I’d love to take you.
Me: Are you sure?
Holt: Yes or no, Blaire.
Me: YES
I dance around the chair in a very un-me-like move. I’ve never been to a concert before, and if there is one band I’d like to see, it’s Kelvin McCoy.
