Page 79 of Even Ground

“I’d love it. What are we watching?”

She hesitates, and when she speaks her words are quiet. “Grey’s Anatomy is our favourite show.”

I fist my free hand and wave it in the air in excitement. “You’re letting me in on your favourite show?” I frown. “Wait. Why aren’t you doing this with Delaney?”

“She’s having Christmas with her family. I mean, I am too but the house is full and I could do with some peace and quiet with a friend.” She clears her throat. “I’m sorry, I should ask how your Christmas is going. Delaney said you’re spending time with family?”

I swallow hard. “Uhh that’s right. Okay. So, how do we do this?”

A door clicks closed and the background noise disappears at Pania’s end. “I’m just going to grab my laptop and get comfortable. Oh, and I’ve got a bag of potato chips. Have you got snacks?”

I bite my bottom lip. “I can find something. How about I get ready and call you back so this doesn’t cost you anything?”

“That’d be great. It’ll give me a chance to get into my pyjamas.”

I close my eyes. Holy shit. I really don’t need an image of Pania in bed while we watch TV together. But I guess it’s way too late for that.

“Sounds good,” I croak. “Call you back in a few.”

After retrieving a bag of potato chips from a kitchen cupboard, I walk to the bedroom and strip out of my clothes, pulling on a pair of grey sweatpants before climbing into bed. The one thing I did change about this place was putting in a new television a couple of years ago so I could watch TV in bed. Although, I’ve barely used it—the couch or the recliner have been the places I’ve fallen asleep.

I check my phone to find what streaming service Grey’s Anatomy is on. And once I’ve confirmed I can watch it, I dial Pania back.

“Ready?” she asks.

“Sure. What do we do?”

“Just watch and keep each other company. Do you want to go with a new episode, or …?”

“Should I start from the beginning?”

She laughs softly. “We can do. It’ll mean fewer questions.”

“Then let’s do that.”

I have no idea about this TV show, but I enjoy knowing Pania’s on the other end of the line, and even though I can’t remember falling asleep during the third episode, I think it’s the best Christmas I’ve had in years.

18

Reece

Months later

I’ve never been to the Oscars before—let alone being nominated for an award. Tonight is the most special night of my career.

For the first time in a long time, I’m at my apartment. I wanted some time out to think about tonight and what it means. I’ve worked my ass off to sort my life out, and make myself feel worthy of the one woman I want to be more than just a quick fling.

The plan tonight is for me to go to Josh’s place and we’ll all travel together from there.

That’s not going to work. I get as far as putting on my tux and Skyping Pania to try and kill my nerves.

“Hey!” Pania waves and bites her lip. It’s glossy and plump, sheened in a gloss she doesn’t normally wear. I like it. It suits her.

I wave back.

She points at the screen. “Look at you all dressed up. Are you going somewhere?”

I roll my eyes. “You know it. Don’t tell me you didn’t make Delaney’s dress for tonight.”

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