The less confused one tips his head, “Maddie, right?” My smile grows into something genuine, and he tips his head again, “I’m Rodrigo.”
I stop a few feet away from them, not wanting to just walk past.
The other guy snaps his fingers, “Maddie, like Maddison, with the Mini?”
“One in the same,” my shoulders shrug up. “Thanks for calling,” I say, recognizing his voice.
He grins, “Anytime. I’m Jason.”
Rodrigo shoves his elbow into Jason’s side making him scowl.
“What?” he rubs at the spot.
Rodrigo points behind me, “Axel’s car.” Then he points to me, “Axel’s girl.”
Jason’s mouth forms an ‘O’ and he takes a step away from me. Like he’ll catch cooties, or hell, for standing too close. “Uh, yeah, okay.” He rubs the back of his neck. “Probably should’ve let Axel call you.”
I shake my head as I hold up the white paper bag. “I’m glad you did. Gave me an excuse to bring him some lunch.” My eyes move past the guys, into the large shop. “Speaking of, do you mind if I go back and surprise him?”
Jason holds an arm out, “Be our guest.”
“Thanks!” I hurry past them, doing my best to act normal as I walk across the floor. My slip-on shoes are practically silent on the concrete, and I’m thankful not to draw any extra attention my way.
Trying to keep my chin up, I glance around and take note of my car. She’s still parked in the same place I last saw it, only now she’s damage free.
Focusing back on the floor in front of me, I tighten my grip on Axel’s keys, my palms starting to sweat.
Why am I so nervous?
It’s Axel.
He’s understanding. Kind. Calm.
My cheeks puff out on an exhale.
You’re going to walk in there, he’s going to smile, and you’re going to apologize. For lying about being sick. For not telling him what happened at the wedding. For doubting him. And for doubting yourself. Because you’re fine. You’re okay. And he likes you enough as you are.
His office door is half-open, like he started to close it then decided against it.
I can see him standing at the window. His broad back to me. His eyes aimed towards the trees outside. Hand holding his phone to ear.
My steps slow.
He’s so big. So handsome. So safe.
“I’m not gonna throw everything away for some piece of ass.”
His words have me freezing in place.
What?
Did he just…?
“I’m 52. Not some fucking 30-year-old idiot.”
Heat.
Waves of heat wash over my skin as my heart skitters past a beat.