Page 41 of Icebound Attraction

I smile broadly.

“I agree with you!”

“But...”

Sorry, what? A ‘but’? Is she going to end up setting limits before I do? Or maybe she just didn't like it that much?

“This can't happen again,” she finally says.

Surprised, I look at her, but say nothing, letting her continue.

“We both have very specific goals for our careers. And... we mustn't lose sight of them.”

Wow!

I definitely misjudged Emily. It seems we have more in common than I thought. And yet, hearing it from her hurts. Maybe because she had the courage I lacked. I know she's right. I know it because it's what I want. But... I've become far more attached to her than I should be.

I look at the ground, shaking my head.

“I know what you mean. Our goals are important, and we can't let ourselves get distracted.”

“Exactly. So, it's best if we remain ‘friends’, if that's okay with you.”

She swallows, and I see her body tense up.

“It's possible, yes...” I finally concede.

“I don't want a relationship to jeopardize my studies. But at the same time, I don't want us to feel like we have to be apart either. I... I like you, Liam...”

A smile passes over my face.

“Good timing, I like you too!”

I look at her.

“Friends, then?” I conclude.

Emily thinks for a moment, then nods.

I feel both relieved and completely lost. I'm usually the one making this speech! And I really wanted to tell her. But paradoxically, it still gives me a hard time to consider being just friends with her.

A smile appears on Emily's face and I feel the tension between us ease.

“Thank you for your honesty, Liam,” she says, sighing with relief.

“I should be thanking you.”

I look into her eyes, then at her mouth and back again.

The agreement to remain friends seems to be the right decision. After this experience, it won't be easy, but it's better for both of us.

You try to convince yourself, that's good.

“It's good that we've put that aside. By the way, why did you ask me to come and see you tonight?” she asks, looking at me intently.

“Oh, I've... er... passed my exam and I wanted to celebrate with you,” I stammer, forcing the corners of my mouth up.

“Liam! This is awesome!”

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