I THINK WE’RE BEST FRIENDS
I was hopingthat I would see Aiden this weekend, but he already has a trip planned with his brothers, so I’m trying to branch out—it’s time to make Florida home. Penny was more than eager to hangout, she said this weekend was going to suck for her if she didn’t have something to do anyway. Since I live on the beach, she’s coming to me. I’ve already gotten snacks and drinks, and I’m just sitting at the island tapping my fingers on the countertop. My phone rattles on the counter, and I smile, hoping that it’s Aiden calling.
Nope. It’s Sean.
I’ve had enough, this is getting so out of hand. I pick up the phone, and in the most authoritative voice, I tell him off. “Sean, you have got to stop calling me, it’s over.”
“Jessa, what have I told you about taking that tone with me?” I’m immediately put off by the way he talks. I thought I liked how controlling and domineering he was when we were together, but it’s become clear I like a softer approach.
I want to hurt Sean, I realize.
“I’m with someone else now,” I say and there’s a long pause over the phone before he speaks again.
“No one can give you what I do. No one is going to put up with your shit the way I do, baby girl.”
“That’s where you’re wrong, Sean. Stop calling me.” I hang up, and it’s about time I hit the block button. It feels so good to finally take that step, it’s my way of completely putting him in my past and not allowing him to disturb this peace I’m creating for myself.
Before, I would probably feel guilty, or like I’m in the wrong for blocking him, but I know this is the right thing. I’m creating a new life for myself, one where I’m not the victim and I get what I want and need.
My phone buzzes again, and my heart sinks, thinking maybe I fucked up and didn’t block him properly. I smile when I see the name on the screen.
Aiden: Hey, baby. Just wanted to let you know we got to the beach house. Miss you, can’t wait to see you when I get back.
I probably look deranged as I stare at my phone.
Me either. Penny is coming over soon. Have fun with your brothers.
Aiden: Are you going to tell Penny?
Maybe, if it comes up?
Aiden: I trust Penny, and you. I want you to feel like you aren’t keeping secrets from your friend. As long as you’re comfortable, so am I.
Fuck, you’re perfect.
Aiden: Not even a little bit, but you make me want to be.
You make me want to be a lot of things too.
There’s a knock at my door, and I grab my phone before opening it. Penny has a pitcher in her hand and a huge smile on her face.
“Come on in.”
“This place is so cute!” she says as she puts the pitcher on the counter and I look at my phone one last time before giving Penny my full attention.
Aiden: Be good, I’ll talk to you tonight.
I’m always good. Penny just got here. Don’t get in too much trouble with your brothers.
I must have a massive grin on my face as Penny gives me a curious look. Aiden was so right, I need a girlfriend to talk about all this shit. I’m not sure exactly how comfortable I can get with Penny when it comes to certain intimate details, but I know she’s trustworthy.
“Who are you texting?” she asks with an arch of her brow.
“Aiden,” I say, trying to control my face.
“I knew you two had a thing!” she says, snapping her fingers and pointing at me.
“Does the whole office know?” I ask, my stomach sinking in a moment of fear.
