“Alright,” I said, giving in.
Blake’s place was a sleek, one-story flat in Laguna with a killer view of the ocean. Being in the real estate industry had its perks.
“Great place,” I said, genuinely impressed.
“Thanks,” she replied, handing me a scotch on the rocks. “I got this off market in 2020 when the market and rates were great.”
“Good timing,” I said.
We sat on her couch, sipping our drinks and admiring the view.
“I’ll be right back,” she said, disappearing into the bedroom.
When she returned, she was wearing red lingerie that clung to her body like it was made for her. She looked like a holiday Barbie.
She tapped something on her phone, and soft music filled the room.
“I’ve been having such a great time with you,” she said, her voice low and sultry.
She straddled me, taking my drink and setting it on the coffee table.
Her hands roamed over my chest, but my body wasn’t responding. My mind drifted back to Natalie, her laugh, her eyes, the way she felt wrapped in my arms.
Blake leaned closer, her lips brushing against my neck. “You like that?” she murmured.
I nodded, but the words felt hollow. “Uh, yeah,” I muttered, my hands resting lightly on her hips.
Blake’s movements became more insistent, but the harder she tried, the more distant I felt. I couldn’t do this.
“Blake,” I said, gently gripping her wrists to still her.
She pulled back, confusion flickering across her face. “What’s wrong?”
“I’m so sorry,” I said, running a hand through my hair. “I have a headache. I shouldn’t have come back with you tonight.”
Her expression softened. “Do you want some Tylenol or water?”
“No, I’ll be okay,” I said quickly. “I just…I’m not in the right headspace right now. It’s not you. You’ve been amazing.”
Blake sighed, clearly disappointed, but she managed a small smile. “It’s okay, Will. I get it.”
“I’d love to see you again,” I said, trying to salvage the moment. “Maybe dinner on Sunday? At my place?”
Her smile grew a little. “That sounds great.”
I kissed her on the cheek, grateful she wasn’t angry, and called myself an Uber.
As soon as I got in the car, I pulled out my phone.
I had to text Natalie.
Will: Natalie…
CHAPTER 15
BACK TO YOU
NATALIE
