Page 28 of The Winning Ticket

My stomach sinks a little at the reminder that I’ll only see Jake on the odd occasion he’s in town. I shouldn’t feel as disappointed as I do, and I shove the thought to the back of my mind.

“So you think it’s a good idea?”

“I already said I think it’s a great idea… Why? Do you not think it’s a good idea?” She waits for me to answer while I try to work through whatever it is I’m feeling.

“I just… I don’t think I’m ready to live with someone who has the power to make me homeless again,” I say in a half whisper while staring down at my plate.

“Oh, honey… Jake would never do anything like that to anyone. But if you’re really worried about it, maybe suggest that you sign an official lease to him. Something to protect you.”

I mull this over while we continue eating.

“Yeah… That’s a good idea. I’ll call him this afternoon and see what he says.”

“He’ll say yes. Jake won’t want you to feel uncomfortable at all, you know that. But seriously, it’s Jake. He would never do that, and he’s all about helping people. It’s going to be so great. And it means I can come to visit that sweet apartment… I mean you… all I want.”

I laugh at my sister's antics, the ball of nervous energy beginning to unfurl in my stomach.

I’m going to do it. It’s too perfect of an opportunity to pass up.

A part of me is excited at the idea of spending even a tiny amount of time hanging out with Jake without our friends around to monitor our movements constantly. But I’d never admit this to anyone.

Because nothing can ever happen between us.

13

WASH YOUR MOUTH, WOMAN

JAKE

Little B

Are you sure about me taking the master bedroom?

Jake

Yeah, go for it. It doesn’t make sense for me to have it when I’m barely there.

Little B

OK… as long as you’re sure? Thanks, JJ.

Jake

Anytime, Little B.

Two weeks after Bri moves in, I let myself into the apartment and am immediately set upon by a wild beast.

Or, more accurately, a small ball of white fluff.

Maddie is dancing around my feet, and I try not to trip over her. With my guitar strapped across my back, my hands are full with my overnight bag and some groceries.

“Hey, fluff ball. Give me a sec,” I say, dumping the groceries on the kitchen bench.

I wouldn’t have known Bri lived here if I hadn’t seen the text messages confirming that she’d moved in. The place looks so clean and tidy - it’s as picture-perfect as the first day I arrived.

Maddie starts scratching at my leg while I look around, and I reach down to pick her up. I carry her under my arm while I walk into my new bedroom and put my bag on the bed. Putting the dog down, I pull my guitar strap over my head and lay it down gently next to the bag.

“Bri? Are you home?” I call out, going in search of the fluff ball’s mother.

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