Page 23 of Shea's Hero

Logically, I know the ship has sailed on a relationship with Oliver. It’s been too long. I’m sure he’s moved on.

But maybe… we could be friends. Maybe one day, I could explain. Maybe I could have him back in my life again.

Before I lose my nerve, I grab my phone and type out a text.

Hey. I was just thinking. We didn’t really get a chance to talk last night. And I’d really like to hear about your job. Catch up. If you’re interested…

Then I hit send.

A moment later, I wonder if my phone has the option to unsend a text. It must. Don’t all iPhones have that option?

My heart pounding, sweat prickling along my back, I scan the messages app, searching for how to delete the message before Oliver reads it. There has to be a way.

Apparently I’m a dope, because I can’t figure it out. So I start searching on my computer, my chest getting tighter by the second.

But just as I think I might have found something, my phone dings with an incoming text.

Augh. He’s going to say no, and I’m going to feel like the worst kind of fool.

Holding my breath, I read his reply.

I’d like that. Are you free tonight?

Oh.

My heart leaps before I sternly command it to settle. Remind it that a friendly meeting is just that. It doesn’t mean anything more.

Throwing caution to the wind, I send my response.

Yes. I’ll be at work until five. But I could meet after that.

Three dots blink for several seconds.

That works. I’m on day shift again, so I’m done at four. How about if I pick you up from work instead of one of the B and A guys? We can grab something to eat and I can take you home after.

Before I can reply, another text appears.

If you trust me to protect you instead of them, of course.

I snort loudly, earning a few curious looks from people in the surrounding cubicles. Do I trust Oliver to protect me? Is that a rhetorical question? He’s tied with Niall for the two men I trust to protect me more than anyone.

A genuine smile teasing my lips, I reply to his message.

Of course I do. And that sounds perfect.

A moment later, his reply appears on the screen.

Great. I’ll come inside to pick you up. See you then.

Oh.

I shouldn’t let myself hope. I know I shouldn’t.

But I can’t help it.

CHAPTER 6

OLIVER

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