Page 39 of Agony of Our Regret

“Dude, it was four years ago, and even you have to admit it was a dangerous idea for you to play on a higher level,” Noah snapped. “Yes, it fucking sucked. We all agree, but you not playing was the right thing to do. Move on.”

I swear steam blew out of Vince’s nose. “I’m trying. I keep getting pulled back.”

“Maybe it's because it’s where you belong,” Sky suggested in a much gentler tone.

Vince didn’t respond.

“So, you two are here for good?” Luca looked between Noah and Sky, who both agreed. Then he glanced down at me.

Having telepathy right about now would have been amazing. I wanted to communicate with Gavin and him without the others hearing.

Their news didn’t change anything for me.I still needed time.

“Where are you planning on staying?” I asked instead.

Noah’s brows furrowed. “What do you mean?”

“Are you going to live with your parents?”

“Um?” He turned to Sky.

“We thought...” Sky’s eyes narrowed as he trailed off. He probably expected us to jump in and suggest our place, but that wasn’t happening.

“Ave’s house is available if you guys want to stay there,” Luca offered. “Might be better than living at home after being on your own for so long.”

“Her house?” Sky repeated. “The one here?”

Here as in Arlington, not downtown.

“Yeah, the renovations look great.” Gavin grinned.

Sky pushed his hand through his hair. “I––”

“The commute isn’t too bad,” Luca interrupted. “Especially, if you guys drive together so you can use the carpool lane.”

I caught Vince smirking.

“Don’t you guys have a three-bedroom?” Sky asked.

“Yes, we do.” Luca cocked his head to the side.

“Then why can’t we––”

“I think there should be an adjustment period,” Gavin cut in. “You both need to re-acclimate to the real world. We weren’t the only ones who missed you. You both should spend time with your families. Get used to the routine of working and being functioning adults. It would be best to have your own space.”

All eyes flew to me.

This was what I wanted. It was how it had to be, even if Noah and Sky looked disappointed.

“You guys can stay there for as long as you need,” I said.

Sky stepped back, out of the unintentional circle we’d formed. Noah pushed his curls from his face.

My stomach rolled at the most unexpected and inopportune time. I fought to put my hand over it or my mouth. I tensed against Luca, and his gaze met mine with a question.

I looked at the door with wide eyes, and he cleared his throat. “What department are you guys going to be working for?”

I used his distraction and hurried out to the bathroom down the hall. I closed the door and had less than three seconds to yank up the lid of the toilet and pull my hair back before the little I ate came up.

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