Page 49 of Tiers of Joy

“Night Gaige. You’ve given me the most amazing night in so long. Thank you.” I murmur sleepily.

Gaige doesn’t say anything back. He continues to stroke my back. I fall fast asleep after that.

∞∞∞

I awake to bright sunshine pouring in through the window. I groan and face plant my pillow. I reach my hand out to cuddle into Gaige but he's not there. I frown and wonder if he’s in the shower or making breakfast.

I think back to the night before and smile. It was the most amazing night I've ever had. I know I said one night but I'm not sure that my heart only wants one night. I need to think this through and talk to Sally. I thought I would wake up feeling guilty like I’d cheated on Jay or something, but I don’t. I just want more.

I jump out of bed smiling. I can't remember the last time I woke up smiling. I chuck on Gaige’s t-shirt and go downstairs in search of him. I find him with his back to me. He’s on the phone. I tip toe behind him so he can't hear me.

“Yeah, I missed you too.” He says into the phone. I freeze.

“Yeah, I will see you tonight. No I will come and stay at yours. Yeah, I can't wait.” He smiles into the phone.

I feel like I've been punched in the gut. I quietly step backwards, walking straight into the shelves and knocking a plant all over myself. I’m covered in dirt. Gaige spins round, his smile fading.

“Yeah I’ve got to go. See you later Amy. Bye.” He says with his eyes on me.

God, it was Amy. Sucker punch number two.

“You okay?” He asks, brushing some of the dirt off of my hair.

“Yep, yep, yep. Totally fine. Was, err, just going to ask if you mind if I jump in the shower first?” I ask.

His lips twitch.

“Well, seeing as you are covered in dirt, I think you call dibs.” He smiles.

“Good, good. So roads are open again?” I ask.

“Yeah.” He answers. For a moment I think he looks sad, but then he smiles.

“Great! Can't wait to get back home.” I state.

“That’s the first time you’ve called it home.” He notices.

I start walking backwards to get the hell out of there.

“Ah-ha so it is! Well, off in the shower now, then I can be out of your hair.” I laugh nervously. I walk as quickly as I can, tripping up the stair as I go.

I stand under the water and chastise myself.

“Stupid Esme! You knew he was with Amy. One night, that’s what was agreed. You have no right to feel hurt, upset, or angry. Nope. Get a grip girl.” I talk to myself.

Once out of the shower I borrow one of Gaige’s big hoodies. It drowns me but it’s warm and comfy.

I walk downstairs and wait for Gaige to be ready.

I sit biting my thumb nail anxiously. I just want to get back home and hide away for a while. I need to hide my embarrassment, gather my thoughts, and regroup.

Gaige comes downstairs and smiles. I grab my coat and purse.

“Want to go so soon?” He asks.

“Yeah, best get back. There’s lots to be getting on with.” I smile.

“Okay, let me just get the key for the truck and we will get going.” He states.

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