Page 46 of Both Sides Now

The students stir from their savasana pose and gather their things. On their way to the changing area, each one pauses by my side. Some offer words of encouragement. Others simply pull me into a tight hug.

There are plenty of tears too, but this time, they’re happy ones.

Keegan hangs back, offering me a wink and thumbs up from across the studio.

It’s fantastic to be back on the mat. To lead my students in their flow, and regain my own in the process.

Keegan gave his all during the class, although I’m fairly certain that’s par for the course where he’s concerned.

His downward dog requires some serious tweaking, but lucky for him, Ally remained by his side, offering hands-on adjustments.

What a pal.

Don’t think I didn’t notice her hands lingering on his hips and back.

Lots and lots of touching between those two.

Once again, my little green monster rears its ugly head.

With a sigh, I shake away lingering feelings of envy. I know full well I’m being ridiculous.

And childish.

And possessive.

But damn it, I can’t help it. I blame Keegan for being so dashing that he evokes those emotions in me. Yes, that excuse works.

Besides, he’s a hell of a friend to me, even if I loathe the boundaries of that concept.

When I asked him to support me, he was there. No questions asked.

The perfect pal. Blech.

I fight back the disappointment as Ally waves off the last student. Keegan is gone. He likely has exciting plans for the evening.

Time for me to get some exciting plans of my own, instead of camping on the couch every night.

However, if my last attempt at dating is anything to go on, I’m good with staying couch-locked.

At least where dating is concerned.

“How does it feel?” Ally asks, looping an arm around my shoulder.

“Like I’ve been away too long.”

“You have, but yoga will always welcome you back. Want to grab some coffee?”

I shake my head, pulling my coat off the hook. “Not tonight. Although, I found a new coffee place and it’s divine. I’ll take you tomorrow.”

“Sounds like a plan.”

Strolling out the door, I turn right onto Main Street, away from my former coffee house, and toward the small coffee shop Keegan introduced me to weeks ago.

“Have I made a convert out of you?”

I turn on my heel, catching sight of Keegan as he leans against his Jeep.

“Whatever do you mean?” I fight to maintain an innocentexpression, but the grin breaks across my face at his insinuation.

---