Page 171 of The Last Good Man

“I’m not into him.”

“Sure. Whatever you say.”

“I’m not.We broke up six months ago and both moved on.”

My mouth falls open, my smile completely gone.

“Who broke up with whom? He did?”

“We both did.”

“I don’t believe you. And why would you still spend time withhim?”

“Because we’re friends. As I said before…”

Oh, fuck no.

This is the most messed up story I’ve ever heard.

When I thought I had itbad, here comes this story.

This woman, Joanna, puts herself through hell for this man.It must’ve been a long-distance relationship, and he must’ve played the field on both sides of the Atlantic.

He continues to do that, and she can’t see him for who he is?

What kind of man does that to a woman he has slept with?

And why can’t she let go of him?

Is he that good in bed?

Has he showered her with his attention?

Was she attracted by his good manners?

Whatmade her be with him in the first place? Andwhy is she looking out for him?

He treated her so poorly.

“Why didn’t you tell him?” I ask.

She turns to stone while I continue.

“Yes. Why didn’t you tellhimI was with another man?”

She presses her lips together, refusing to answer.

“Do you know why?” I say.

Her eyebrows move, yet her expression remains frozen.

“You didn’t want him to know you were still into him. You still hoped he’d come back to you. How did you think that would happen?”

“That’s not your business.”

“No, it’s not. As much as my life is not your business either. Do yourself a favor and forget about this guy. He’s not interested in you—a twelve-year-old could see it. Stop wasting your time.”

She doesn’t say a thing.

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