I return to my salad, my mind churning over AJ’s offer so I jolt when my phone rings. Quickly, I pick it up and accept the call. “Hey, Mel. Thanks for calling me back.”
“Anytime, Sare. But this is unusual for you to be calling me in the middle of a workday. What’s up?”
I blow out a heavy breath and spill everything about AJ and how I’m overthinking everything as usual. She listens to my rambling thoughts, as she always does. “It feels too fast.”
“I hear what you’re saying, but this is what you wanted. He’s giving it to you on a silver platter. Book a hotel, it’ll take you five minutes, and then text him the place and time. You don’t need to overthink this, Sare. You’ve already thought of everything.”
Thank God for my best friend. “Okay. I’ll do it. Thank you.”
“Have you got everything you need?”
“Yeah, I ordered everything I needed as soon as he offered when we first met. It arrived on Friday, so I’m ready.”
“No excuses. Go forth and get knocked up, my friend.” She chuckles. “If you need me, I’m off tonight.”
“Thanks, Mels Bells. You’re the best.”
“I know. Mwah! Good luck.”
We disconnect the call and I locate the number of a hotel not far from my place, make the damn booking, and message AJ.
Me:Hey, it’s me
God, Sarah. He already knows it’s you. Your name probably shows up on his damn screen.
AJ:Hey you
Me:Are you still available tonight?
AJ:Of course. My sperm is ready and waiting! I made a fresh batch today
I chuckle. I’m glad he finds this whole thing funny.
Me:Would you be able to meet me at the Como after dinner?
I hold my breath as I wait for his answer.
AJ:We could have dinner together
Shit! That would make it feel like a date and I’m not sure if I can keep my emotional distance if we share a meal before doing what needs to be done. I need to keep the lines clear and defined or my heart may get confused.
AJ:Or we don’t have to and I’ll meet you at the hotel. Do you have a room number?
Me:Thanks, I’m not sure what time I’ll finish here and then I need to get home. Room 743
Me:See you after 7
Me:Thank you
AJ:No problem
CHAPTER8
–sarah–
I don’t thinkI’ve ever been this nervous before. My legs are shaky, and I’m worried I’m going to tip over because I’m off-balance. I check in at the front counter and collect my key to the room. I didn’t want to do this at my apartment, because well, I don’t really know AJ. I didn’t think it was prudent to invite him into my home. I tighten my hold on the strap of my purse as I step into the elevator, pressing the button for my floor. As the doors are about to close, a couple enters and he whispers something to her. She glances across at me, then giggles. He pulls her incredibly close and nuzzles down into the crook of her neck and my chest tightens because I want that. I lock my eyes on the numbers above the door, so I’m not tempted to watch their interaction. Nothing good can come from wishing and hoping for something that’s never going to happen for me. I have different priorities now and I need to remember that.
The doors finally open on my floor, and I scurry out after wishing the couple a mumbled good night. I’m sure their evening will be completely the opposite of mine. Though, if everything goes as planned, I’ll be on my way to being pregnant! Yay me! Stopping outside my room, I scan the card with a shaky hand. Geez, Sarah, get yourself under control, girl. I’m a little early, but I wanted to set up before AJ arrives. He’s been extremely accommodating, offering to meet with me at such short notice, so I don’t want to waste his time.