“Oh my God! You’re ridiculous. I’d hardly count a few text messages as cozying up to him. He’s nice. He’s also got a big heart. I think he’s going to get involved with the children’s cancer group in Tampa.”
“Fucking suck-up.”
“Nicky!”
“Okay, I’m kidding. But, seriously, you up for company? I can be there in thirty minutes.”
“I’d love it. I have a full bottle of wine chilling.”
“I’ll bring beer.” He disconnects, and I immediately dial Shaw.
“Beautiful,” he answers. His voice is low and there’s murmuring in the background.
“You sending your brother to babysit?”
“No, I’m sending him to make sure you get a decent meal and have some fun.”
“I can take care of myself.”
“You can, but it’s unnecessary.”
I sigh, the nagging feeling returning.
“Biz, is something wrong?”
“No, I’m disappointed about our plans being canceled.”
“Dammit,” he hisses, and I hear him moving, the voices in the background growing faint.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean—”
“No, I’m sorry. Have I upset you? Are you angry?”
“Of course not. There’s a huge difference in anger and disappointment.”
“I’ll make it up to you. Tell me we’re okay.”
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His words set off an alarm inside.
“Why wouldn’t we be? You have to work. I’m being selfish.”
“Stop. You are the most selfless person I know. I’ll cancel tonight if it’s going to upset you.”
“Shaw, what’s gotten into you? I’m fine. Don’t cancel your meeting. I’m sorry I said anything.”
He lets out a loud breath, signaling his own disappointment. “I’ll be there in a few hours. Tomorrow morning, I cleared my schedule so I can spend some time with you, alone.”
“Sweetie, are you okay? Something seems off.”
“Yes, I’m fine. I miss you like crazy. Knowing you have to work the next four nights fucking sucks.”
I wait for him to mention me moving in again, but he doesn’t. He hasn’t pushed in over a week.
In reality, I wanted to pack up and move the minute he asked. Living together would be another dream come true for me, but the little bit of my brain that wasn’t consumed with love-lust told me to take a little time to think about it. Maybe I was too harsh and he took it the wrong way? Or maybe he’s changed his mind? The thought makes my stomach ache.
“You still there?” He breaks through my thoughts, and I realize he’s waiting on me to respond.