Page 119 of Hard to Score

I should type something else. A thank you. A come over. An I need you.

An I love you.

But I don’t. Instead, I toss my phone back where it was and close my eyes.

I just hope she can still love me after I didn’t stand up for her more, tonight. Didn’t chase after her.

I didn’t fight hard enough for the one thing I love.

Doesn’t that make me just like him?

CHAPTER SIXTY-THREE

BREXTON

THREE DAYS.

It’s been three goddamn days since I walked out of that house, since I got that text that felt like a death sentence to our relationship, and not one word since.

I know he’s been at practice but nothing else.

Did they fight it all out and Drew’s mourning whatever the outcome was? Did Gary reassert his truth that my family is to blame, and Drew fell back down that rabbit hole and is afraid to tell me that we’re over?

“Quit overthinking it,” Lennox says in my ear.

“I’m not.”

“That’s total bullshit and you know it. He didn’t have to answer your text but he did. In fact, he was specific that he needed time to figure his shit out. I’d say that’s progress. I’d say that’s a man letting you know what is happening instead of shutting down when it comes to communication like most do. I know it’s hard, but you need to hold tight to that.”

“Perhaps.”

“No perhaps about it. It’s a fact.” She chuckles. “If he was going to end things he wouldn’t have responded. He would have blown you off and that would be that. Instead he asked for time, for grace, and you’re giving it to him. Sounds like the perfect give and take if you ask me.”

“Except that I’m sitting here in the dark.”

“True, but you’re also being the person he needs you to be right now. And that is one of the most important things in any relationship. You both had to bend and bow at different times. You might not always like it, but it’s true.”

“Of course, because you’re a relationship expert now that you’ve found Rush.”

“Far from it, but I’m learning as I go. Oh, and don’t think for a second that I don’t know why you call me for this shit. Because you don’t have to see me face to face so when I’m right, you can still save face.”

“Whatever,” I say but know there’s an iota of truth in what she said. With her living in the UK now, she’s my go-to advice person because it’s easier. “Things with Rush still good?” I ask.

“Gloriously so,” she says. “And speaking of the devil, he’s calling for me from the other room. You good?”

“Yes. Thank you.”

“You can thank me when I’m proven right.”

“Funny.”

“Love you.”

“Love you more.”

And when the call ends, I feel a little better but still worry about him.

Still miss him.