Page 74 of More Than a Fling

“Just forget it Gabe. I need time, and you won’t convince me otherwise. Let’s eat.”

“Whatever you say, you’re in charge. Sit down and dig in before supper gets cold,” Gabe said.

They were both quiet as they ate dinner.

“You know Midnight is being shipped out next week,” he said, attempting to make conversation.

“I know, I’m sorry Gabe, I know how much she means to you.”

“What about how much you mean to me?”

Annie didn’t respond. They finished the rest of the meal locked into their own stubbornness.

“Will you at least stay here tonight? I know you’re upset, but we can just sleep together. That’s all,” Gabe said.

“It’s late and I’m tired so that’s a yes.”

Gabe couldn’t believe the relief he felt at her agreeing to stay. She hadn’t given up completely. “I’ll clear the table. Let’s watch a movie, sound good to you?”

“Sure,” she said, still subdued.

“I’ll even let you pick.”

“How aboutThe Other Woman?” Annie said, smiling slightly at her own dark humor.

“Very not funny,” Gabe said, fighting his irritation.

“How aboutHarry Potter?”She suggested.

“That sounds more like it.”

Even though Annie remained withdrawn she still snuggled up to Gabe to watch the film, and as per usual he fell asleep half-way through it. She smiled at the familiarity and how much it meant to her. She watched him sleeping and felt tears stinging her eyes. He snorted and she smiled putting a hand protectively over her aching heart. She had never felt so exposed and vulnerable in her life. She was head over heels in love.

33

The following morning Annie packed up a few essentials before heading in to work. Gabe was already hard at work, so she left a note for him to find on his noon break and headed out. She had a full day of clients ahead of her and wouldn’t breath fresh air again until after seven this evening.

Someone had brought in donuts from the local bakery and there was a fresh pot of coffee waiting.

“You guys are the absolute best!” Annie exclaimed.

“Zoey is the one to thank,” James said.

“Thank you, Zoey.”

“Welcome,” she said with her mouth full.

“How is the hunk?” Zoey asked.

“Don’t want to talk about it,” Annie said.

“Trouble in paradise?” J.J. asked.

“Just taking a little breather,” Annie replied.

“Any more trouble from the asshole?” Zoey asked.

“Nope, I think I can close the book on that one.”

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