Page 20 of Closer

I focus on the task at hand, losing myself in the rhythm of shelving.

This is my life now.

Simple. Uncomplicated.

No more corporate games, no more living up to anyone’s expectations but my own.

And no more you know who.

Chapter 8

Sebastian

Delete. Delete. I skim through work emails on my laptop, my finger tapping on the button. Delete.

“Sebastian.” My assistant enters the office. “Just a reminder that I’ll be leaving early today.”

“Right, thanks, Emily.”

“And I sent you the papers you wanted. Is there anything else you need?”

“Yes, can you please bring me some Ibuprofen? This pack is empty.”

“Already?”

I raise an eyebrow at her.

“Sure.” She exits the room and returns with another pack, handing it to me.

“Thanks.”

“Do you need anything else?”

“No, that’s all. Have a good weekend.”

“Thanks, you too.” With a smile, she closes the door behind her.

My eyes drift towards the city skyline.

Lil’s back.

According to Gemma, Lil is at odds with her uncle. Having her close by could potentially benefit me. What if I use her this time?

No, I’m not my father, and I’m not going to continue this feud.

But I enjoyed having her sleep in my arms, clinging to me. She smelled different.

Did she stop baking her cupcakes?

Anyway. It was only one night. One last time of playing our pretend game.

My finger taps on the delete button. I don’t even know what I’m deleting.

Fuck this. I won’t be able to do any work today.

I stand up from my chair, gather my belongings, and head to the gym. After changing into workout gear, I head straight for the punching bags.

Thwack. Thwack. Thwack.

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