Crushing is an understatement. Crushing was weeks ago. I’m in deep water without a float. If I’m not careful, I’m totally going to drown.
CHAPTER17
Apollo
(FEBRUARY 14TH – DAY 49 POST OP)
“You’re sure it’s not overkill?”
Athena and I are in a local jewelers. I’ve picked out the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for Edith, and my sister came along to “help.”
In fairness, I’m not sure if she’s helping me or fucking with me right now, but I’m enjoying the one on one time all the same.
“It’s definitely overkill,hermanito. But she’s known you for long enough that I don’t think she’ll mind much. Has she mentioned Valentine’s Day to you?”
Shaking my head, my stomach clenches. “We’re not really... I mean...” I scratch the back of my neck with my hand. “She’s not... We aren’t...” I grunt. “Mierda!”
Athena laughs in earnest. “You’ve got it bad, Apollo.”
There’s no denying it, so I don’t even bother.
“She’s reluctant?”
I nod, afraid of what train wreck will come out of my mouth if I open it.
“She’s afraid of losing your friendship?”
“And that I’m only interested in her like that because I saw the light at the end of the tunnel.”
“Put the necklace down.”
“But—”
“Ahora, cabrón.We need to dial it back.” She pats my shoulder, and I bristle at the condescension. I know Edith and the kinds of things she likes. What does Athena really know about her?
“Don’t give me that look.” She wags a finger at me. “Going in hot like this will chase her away. She likes Valentine’s Day, you know that for sure,sí?”
“It’s her favorite. She’s a hopeless romantic.”
“But you haven’t defined your relationship?”
Why does my sister always sound like she’s making a transaction at the bank when talking about romance? And why does what we have need defining?
“Look.” She sighs. “She’s afraid she’s going to lose you as her best friend by becoming your girlfriend. So be her best friend,pendejo.” She smacks me upside the head like it’s obvious I’m a complete idiot.
But I still don’t get it. Why can’t I romance her while also being her best friend?
“Don’t spook her, Apollo. She might be wealthy and not at all intimidated by your bank account, but she’s also hurt. Recovering from the accident isn’t easy for her. She needs stability. Changing gears between you both might result in being one adjustment too much for her right now. Play it safe. A diamond fucking necklace isn’t playing it safe. Even if it is adorable. Don’t be acabrón, hermanito. Confía en tu hermana mayor.”
Trust her? I’ll try. But who knew ordering three dozen pink roses, a bottle of Cristal, and a necklace was overkill? Okay, fine. It probably was, but I really wanted to make it special for Edith. “I’ll send the flowers to Mamá from all of us.”
Athena nods. “Good idea. What is Edith into other than dance?” She guides me out of the store, directing me to a bench right outside, then makes me sit.
“She loves crappy chick flick movies.”
“So why don’t you just watch movies with her?”
It’s my turn to look at her like she’s an idiot. “How is that different to every other night we’ve ever spent together?”
