Great.
I’ve suspected this for a while now but having him confirm that he’s secretly observed my life falling apart is unsettling.
“Well, I wouldn’t say I knoweverything,” he says,“but I know enough. Like… how things are kind of strained at home right now.”
I’m quiet, unsure how to respond. Unsure if it’s even possible to save face at this point. When Seth shifts on his feet, I brace myself for whatever he’s about to say.
“Listen, I’m no relationship expert, but I know these things start to feel like they creep into every other part of your life.”
He tucks his hands inside his pockets, and I don’t say a word. The last thing I wanted was for a professional connection to have insight into my life, but that’s the world with Pandora.
“I’m not trying to make this uncomfortable,” he says. “I’m just acknowledging that you’ve got a lot going on, and… I’m here if you need anything.”
He’s bordering on forbidden territory. Not crossing the line to the point that I need to make a big deal of it, but moving forward, I’ll be intentionally cautious with this conversation.
“I’ll be fine,” I lie. “If we can get this electrical thing sorted out quickly, that’ll definitely make things easier.”
When he nods, holding my gaze, I think he knows I’m deflecting.
“Yeah, of course. Totally. I’ll put in some calls right away, so we can move forward.”
“Cool.”
“Cool,” he nods again. “I guess I should get back in there. But seriously, if you need anything, even if it’s just to talk, I’m here.”
My smile is faint and quick. “For sure. Thanks.”
He starts toward the building again, but glances back over his shoulder before heading inside.
My sister’s words echo inside my head, her claim that Seth has a thing for me. I’ve been in denial for a while, wanting to believe all he’s after is a working friendship, but today felt… off.
I shake off the weirdness and check my phone instead, realizing there’s absolutely no way I’ll make it to West’s appointment. Imagining him sitting there alone, getting what could possibly be devastating news, I feel like shit.
Even though today was unavoidable, and I had every intention to go to Dr. Graham’s office, I can’t shake the feeling that I’ve failed.
The past two weeks, I’ve avoided West’s calls because I know myself. There’s no way I can think clearly if I don’t create some sort of separation. But I miss my husband, and if ever there was a time to reach out, it’s today.
I’ll give him time to decompress and process whatever info Dr. Graham delivers. Then, tonight before bed… I’m going for it.
*
@QweenPandora:
Well, would you look at that! #NewGirl is getting the love she deserves after all. Only, it isn’t #KingMidas’s arms she’s fallen into.
Take a look at this pic I received from one of you lovelies. Seems we didn’t tag Seth as #TheBenchwarmer for nothing after all.
I smell a scandal brewing on the horizon. Oh, to be a fly on the wall when our beloved king lays his eyes on this.
Stay tuned.
Later, peeps :)
—P
Chapter Twenty-One
West
