Something about Ashley being released from her prison of guilt has got me going.
“I appreciate that.” I thank Pete again and end the call.
And then, I look out over the tarmac to the night sky beyond. I pray for the strength to get past my father’s death. I never realized until now how much it’s been holding me back. I’ve done it to myself—I refused to grieve, refused to acknowledge my pain, and it’s cost me. I’ve pushed Ashley away.
But I won’t do that anymore.
I’m going all in with her, starting tonight.
I climb the rest of the steps and walk to the back of the plane.
“You want to play gin?” Tex asks me as we settle into our seats.
“Sure.”
He deals me in, and Arch joins us as we take off.
A few rounds in, Max asks to play.
“So what’s going on with your temporary roommate?” Arch asks me with a raised eyebrow.
Max shakes his head at him. “Don’t push it, man.”
“I’m not pushing anything,” Arch says. “Just making conversation.”
“Conversation, my ass,” Tex says. “You’re dying to know if he’s dating her.”
“Ashley’s an old friend,” I say. “I’ve told you that.”
“I remember.” Arch takes his turn before adding, “Seems like maybe she’s more than that now?”
I consider telling him off for being such a nosy fucker, but his blue eyes are open and his tone genuinely curious.
Arch is as scared of getting into a relationship as any guy I’ve ever known. We’ve all got our reasons, and I don’t know his. What I do know is that he goes through women like he’s allergic to seeing them more than once.
And I can relate. So I put down my cards and shift to face him.
“She doesn’t bore me,” I say. “No matter how much time I spend with her.”
He widens his eyes. “Really?”
“Really.”
I see the moment he shutters his expression. He blinks, and the emotion that was in his eyes disappears.
“Well, good for you, man.” He returns to focusing on the cards in his hand.
I glance over at Max, who shoots me the barest of smiles.
But I don’t need to ask him what he’s thinking. I can talk to my twin without speaking.
I’m happy for you.
I haven’t committed to anything…I try to argue him.
Don’t care. I’m still happy for you.
I give him a head nod.
