I stared at them for a second. Was it really that simple?
Claire nudged me. “So we weren’t wrong? You do have a crush on her?”
“It’s not a crush,” I choked out, and considered hiding in a gift bag again.
“It’s more?”
“It’s everything.” I stood, the admission knocked the stupidity out of me. “I have to get back to work. I have to see her and apologize.” I grabbed my keys and wallet. “I’ll see you tonight.” Panic zoomed through me, and my hand shot up to my face. “Oh no. Tonight. The LAN’s tonight.”
“Whoop. You’ve just remembered Lily, haven’t you?” Claire asked.
Fear set my bones in place as I thought of her last message. She was scared of meeting me. And I was chasing after another woman on the day I’d be meeting her?
This wasn’t right.
I nodded.
“Oh,” Claire said.
“Oh,” Rose repeated.
“Go, go,” Claire said. “Go and see Elizabeth.”
“But Lily?” I choked out.
“One at a time, player.” Rose threw herself around my neck for a tight hug. “Good luck. If you miss the launch because you’re confessing your love to someone, I’ll forgive you.”
“I’ll be there.” I paused and mumbled to myself, “I have to be.”
“Hey, Lincoln,” Claire called as I reached the door. “Take a breath. Follow her lead. Be yourself.”
29
ELIZABETH
[55 weeks ago]
@pancakesareelite:
What’s your dream girl like?
@theanswerisno:
Mystery face. Mystery personal life. Loves gaming and laughs at all my jokes
@pancakesareelite:
Hahahahahahaha
Lincoln was missing. No one had heard from him, not even Mr. Anders. People around the office were placing bets on whether he’d died.
Death by unsolicited massage.
A mixture of shame and sadness swirled in my stomach.
I sent multiple emails. Only work-related. Because I had no idea how to saySorry for getting handsy with you; I forgot you’re my boss.
Or maybe he didn’t want me to apologize? I hadn’t imaginedthe way he’d unwound under my touch or the sounds of enjoyment that had vibrated through him and against my fingertips.
