“So you’re going to do it?” James shrugged and gave a small nod. “I get it. Sounds like a sweet gig. Hey, you’ll even have your own place for the week.”
“Yeah. I figure it’ll give you more time to study anyway, right?” Lifeline. “Without me around distracting you.”
“Aw, it’s not like that. You’re not really around much to be a distraction.”
The statement wasn’t made with any accusation, it was just a fact. But with the guilt in Eric’s gut swarming like a poked hive of bees, he sure felt the weight of the words.
He probably wouldn’t have felt so guilty if Hannah weren’t the reason behind his absence.
“Anyway, I just went for a run and was about to grab a shower unless you need the bathroom first?”
“Nah, I’m good.” Eric cleared his throat. “I’ll catch up with you soon, I’m sure.”
“Yeah, at my sister and Blake’s wedding this weekend.” James grimaced and shook his head. “So weird when I hear myself say that aloud. My baby sister’s getting married.”
God, Eric had totally forgotten about that.
“That’s right. Any more details on where that’s happening?”
“Nah, it’s pretty hush-hush so far. They’ll send something out in the next couple of days.” James hesitated. “So, I was thinking Hannah will probably be at the wedding.”
“Yeah, that’s safe to assume.”
“I’m thinking maybe I should try and talk to her. Do you think that’s stupid?”
Eric couldn’t move. His muscles were frozen, and apparently, his tongue was too.
Fuck. How the fuck do I reply to this?
His brain kept chanting, get the hell over her, James, but he knew it was sparked by jealousy mostly.
Would you still be telling James to get over her if you weren’t half-sleeping with Hannah already?
Damn, he wanted to punch the nagging voice in his head.
“Yeah, you don’t need to answer that one. I can see it on your face.” James gave a self-deprecating laugh and turned to walk to the bathroom, calling somewhat bitterly over his shoulder, “I know. I need to move on. I’m sure she’s got a new guy by now anyway.”
Sweat beaded on Eric’s forehead.
It’s me. I’m the new guy.
Or fake new guy with all the benefits.
Once James had gone into the bathroom and closed the door, Eric made his way to his bedroom. He just barely resisted the urge to punch the wall to release some of his guilt and frustration.
He packed quickly, folding the work clothes into his suitcase, and tossing casual clothes on top of those. Fortunately, when he finished up and left the house, James was still in the shower.
As he approached his car, he scanned the darkness for Hannah in the front seat.
His breath locked when he didn’t immediately see her, and he quickened his pace.
Crap, had she gotten out to walk around?
His worries were alleviated when he reached the car door and he spotted her. Of course she wouldn’t have left. Seeing James was the last thing she’d have wanted.
Hannah was reclined in the seat, playing on her phone. Or, make that singing. Her head and shoulders were bobbing around, almost like she was dancing while reclined.
He unlocked the car with his key fob, and the beeping noise had her lowering her phone and sitting up as he climbed in.