“Yes, but for how long?” she sighs, the sound choked full of despair.
We drop the subject to have some drinks, do some shopping, and enjoy spending time together.
And when she leaves, we exchange numbers this time, moving to the next phase in our friendship.
When Ian returns from driving Amelie to the airport, he cocks his head, a line digging between his brows. “I hate sharing you.”
“Oh my, are we jealous?” I tease him.
“You spent more time with my sister than with me,” he grumbles.
I approach him, and rising on my toes, I tap his nose. “Should I kiss your worries away?”
He digs a finger into his temple. “I’m keeping everything I wish to do to you in my head. Oh, flower girl, when it’s time to make them reality….”
A delicious shiver rolls down my spine. I can’t wait.
“My mom called to ask when we plan to arrive for their anniversary party. I told her we’d be there on Thursday.”
Glad he changed the subject before I combust at the sexual innuendo alone, I ask, “Okay, so we’ll fly out that morning to meet them for a late lunch?”
I would love to be introduced as more than just a friend. But we know the truth. We love each other. I feel it in every beat of my heart. The foundation of friendship is the basis for a long-lasting relationship. It’s still difficult though.
TWENTY-SIX
IAN
It’s earlyon Thursday morning, and as I am about to knock on Lilly’s door, she opens it. A bright smile blossoms on her face. Good god, I am so in deep with this woman.
“Ready?” I ask, and she offers a small nod.
We both roll a small suitcase behind us as we wait for the elevator doors to open.
She chews on her lip, excitement and nerves mingling on her features.
I told her repeatedly that my parents will love her. What’s not to love? My sister and her have become tight since she came to visit. Lilly is a steady part of my life; the woman I will spend my life with.
I have kept telling her that and every time I assure her, she smiles with her whole face. We’ll get there.
Once we return, I’ll talk to Coach. Impatience threatens to split my sanity. I’ve given over a hundred percent, but if he keeps me from being with his daughter, then fuck it. Anything is game.
I even talked to Levi about finding me a new team. I am done. But if Lilly won’t come with me, I am screwed. I would rather facea disapproving, moody coach for the rest of my career than not have her near me.
With our arms brushing, our pinkies are an inch apart. The urge to finally claim her as mine roars inside of me. Saying we’re just friends kills my spirit, leaving me a wandering ghost in search of the light.
This will be a great weekend. Not. But at least I will spend it with her.
After the flight to Seattle, we hop in the rental.
She stretches her legs on the dashboard, connecting my phone’s playlist with the car’s speakers. The venue is about three and a half hours from the airport, but I don’t mind. I want to spend more undisturbed time with her.
As we drive, something in me breaks free. The constant pressure of wanting her and not being able to do a thing about it lessens.
Oh love, you really had to throw me a fucking ball that knocked me flat on my back.
I smile as she keeps talking, loving her quirk. She always does that when she’s nervous. I listen to her going on about her bridesmaid dress.
“Would you like to match for Kat’s wedding?” she asks, looking at me from the side.
