Page 41 of I'd Never Date my Brother's Best Friend

“You’re right; I’m tired too. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Alright?”

“Sounds good,” I say as I hang up.

The line goes dead, and I drop the phone on my bed before entering the bathroom. Half an hour later, I’m lying in my pajamas, but sleep refuses to come. It’s annoying because I’m exhausted, but my mind is active with thoughts that keep me on edge.

What if Rick calls? What if Rick is as interested in Jessica as she is in him? I mean, who wouldn’t be? Jessica is a beautiful, funny, intelligent woman. Who wouldn’t want her? I bet he’ll call.

As the thoughts sprout, I think of Jamie and sit up. What am I doing, fantasizing about his sister? I’ve known Jessica since we were kids. She’s basically like a sister to me. I have to get rid of these feelings, and I have to do that fast. She’s not a potential love interest; she’s a younger sister. Evelyn’s best friend! I have to take my mind off her.

I probably don’t like her much; my mind is playing tricks on me. Jessica is an interesting girl, sure, but surely I couldn’t be serious about wanting her for myself. It could never work!

With another sigh, I gently lower myself back on the bed, plumping the pillow before laying down my head. I must complete my task and get Jessica and Rick together, even if it means setting up the dates for them. Maybe if I see Jessica and Rick together in a romantic light, it’ll solidify in my head that she is off limits. I just need to make it happen. And while that is happening, I probably should go on dates. I’ve never lacked prospects, not in LA and not here in Willow Falls, so I know it won’t be challenging to find someone to go out with. If Jessica and I are busy with romantic partners, there will be no avenue for these thoughts of mine to focus on something that can never happen.

Since the problem seems to be on its way to being solved, I force myself to relax my mind and shut my eyes. I’ve got this under control; no need to panic. Slowly, I began to drift asleep. Although at the back of my mind, there’s a nagging doubt that my attraction might pose a bigger problem, I try to squash it as I toss and turn. I cling to the hope that I will find a way out. I always do.

Chapter 17

Jessica

…pressing into my skin, everywhere. I march through the house, my footsteps sure and silent. I am stealth, a predator of the night…

I pause and crack my fingers confidently, as I reread the first paragraph of my tenth chapter. Just a few weeks ago, I couldn’t even write a single word; now, the words just seem to flow effortlessly from my fingertips. I’m aware that many things have happened in the space of a few weeks, and it’s dumbfounding if I think about it. A smile touches my lips, and I set my fingers over my keyboard, ready to go again, when my phone buzzes on the counter beside me.

I crane my neck to stare at the screen and pause when I see Rick’s name. It’s been three days since the speed dating event, and I thought he wouldn’t call. There’s a flicker of excitement inside me as I answer the phone.

“Hello?”

“Hello, Jessica. It’s Rick.” His voice is calm and soft, causing me to smile. “How are you?”

“I’m fine, thank you. How are you?”

“I’m good. Uhm…”he clears his throat. “Sorry I haven’t called you sooner. I didn’t want to put any undue pressure, so I thought I’d give a bit of time before calling.”

“Aww, no pressure at all.” I giggle. “It’s so great to hear from you.”

“You know what would be better?” He asks.

“What?” I can’t seem to control the smile that is on my face.

“Seeing you. I’d really like to see you again, Jessica. I feel like we really connected.”

“Are you asking me out on a date?”

“Yes,” Rick answers without hesitation. “Yes, I am. I’d be honored if you’d go on a date with me.”

“I’d love to go on a date with you, Rick.”

“Yes!” He lets out an excited woop, and I can’t help but laugh. I forgot what being excited to go out with someone feels like.

“When would you be free?” He asks. “I’d like to be able to make plans.”

I falter, my brain going blank. It’s not like I have loads of activities to occupy my time, but I feel like a fish out of water. I’ve got to tell Sean and Evelyn about this, or else I’ll simply mess it up.

“Can I call you back, Rick?” I ask. “I have a deadline for my book coming up and just need to check a few things first before I can give you a day and time.”

“Writing your new book? Well of course we need to make sure you meet your deadline. Give me a call back when you have an idea of what your schedule looks like. I will talk to you then.”

“Great. Thank you for understanding. I’ll give you a call back soon.”

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