Page 56 of Fumble

“Faith… you’ve just confirmed that the next few weeks don’t hold much for me story-wise. I can’t walk away from a scoop like this.”

“Please, don’t. I’ll make sure you get another exclusive with him when this is all over, but I’m begging you not to run with this before his manager holds the press conference. Misinformation could be my downfall at this point.” I’m shaking. Nervous energy pulsing through me. “I’ve made so many mistakes.”

“Take a deep breath. I won’t leak this, but you have to let me get you back to the hotel safely. You need a stiff drink. I’m worried you’re going to pass out again. You scared me half to death in San Francisco. Do I need to take you back inside and get you checked out by a doctor?” He’s a sweet guy. If I’d never met Hunter, James would have been a perfect foray into dating with sex in mind, but I did meet him, and all I want to do is go to his bedside right now.

“I’m okay, just a little shaken. I don’t know why. I’m not the one having surgery.”

It feels wrong to leave the hospital, let alone in a cab with James. He’s a perfect gentleman, genuinely concerned about me, but he’s not Hunter.

* * *

I’ve been staringat my phone for two hours, anxiously awaiting news from Murphy. Barely able to follow James’ attempts at conversation, I finally admit defeat and excuse myself.

“I think I’m going to call it a day. I have a lot to organize for Mr. Vaughn.” James eyes me warily.

“Are you and Vaughn a thing? It sure seemed like it when he crashed our date.”

“Of course not. He’s my boss. He’s just protective because of who my dad is.”

“I’m glad to hear it.” I’m not sure how to respond. I can’t tell him how I feel about Hunter. I can scarcely admit it to myself.

“Thanks for hanging with me. It’s been a weird day.”

“Anytime. Literally.”

“Well, I guess we won’t be seeing much of each other over the next few weeks.”

“Where will you be?”

“Not sure. I suppose I’ll work on reorganizing Hunter’s schedule from back home. You?”

“The paper will find something for me to chase in the meantime. I could take a few days off. Maybe I could come and visit? You could show me the sights?”

“James…” My words are swallowed as he closes the distance between us, cupping my face in his hands, his lips pressing softly to mine.

Instinctively, I push him away, but the smell of his cologne lingers in the air between us.

“I can’t. I’m sorry if I gave you the wrong impression.” Stepping back, he forces his hands in his pockets.

“Faith, shit. I read that completely wrong. I thought we had chemistry. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I… I like you.”

“I like you, too. As a friend.” How many times have I uttered these words in the past? The night I met James, I would’ve welcomed his attention. He’s boyfriend material, someone who wouldn’t incite rage upon introduction to my parents. It would be simple, but complicated with Hunter will win over simple with anyone else—hands down—every time.

“Friends… right.”

“I better go. I’m sorry. I’ll see you in a few weeks, okay? And I won’t forget about your exclusive. Thank you for today.”

“What are friends for?” The defeat in his voice sends a pang of guilt rippling through my chest. I never intended for him to get hurt because, under normal circumstances, he’d be everything I’m looking for, and yet, he’s nothing I want.

Leaving him in the hotel bar, I head for my room, and just as I slide the keycard in the lock, my phone beeps.

Murphy:Surgery went well. In recovery.

My breath escapes me as I stumble through the door, unaware how tense my body had been this whole time.

Me: Tell him I’m asking for him.

Murphy: Will do.

I throw myself on the bed, exhaustion weighing on me like gravity. Hunter’s okay. My chest is tight like it’s been wrapped in rubber bands. As if I’m suffocating. I pull at my shirt, fighting to loosen the collar gasping for air.

Grabbing my phone, I hit speed dial.

“Zee? I need your help.”

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