Page 78 of Closer

Mary: And? Should we give him an award for doing the bare minimum?

Twisting the faucet, I let the water run, steam rising as it fills the tub.

Lil: He was trying. It’s not like I’m an expert at this whole dating thing, either.

I set my phone on the counter and start undressing.

Mary: Trying is one thing, but there has to be a spark, right?

Gemma: Exactly! Was there one?

I pause, my dress halfway unzipped. Did I feel anything? No, because I was too occupied thinking about stupid Sebastian.

Lil: I don’t know. It was one date.

Gemma: You don’t have to defend him.

Mary: One date is enough to know if there’s potential. And if there’s no spark, there’s no spark.

I sigh, tossing my dress aside and reaching for a bath bomb. It fizzes as it hits the water, bursting into swirls of pink and gold.

Lil: Maybe I’m not ready for dating yet.

I sink into the tub, the warm water embracing me.

Mary: Is this about Bash?

I nearly drop my phone into the water. It always comes back to him, doesn’t it?

Lil: No, and maybe yes.

Gemma: It’s okay if it is. These things take time.

I angle my head back, staring at the ceiling. Time. Sometimes, I feel like I’m destined to be alone, forever pining for a man I can’t have.

Lil: Maybe. Or maybe I’m meant to be the crazy cat lady.

Mary: *laughing-emoji*You hate cats.

Gemma: *hug-emoji*

Mary: Why don’t I come over and we’ll have a movie night?

Gemma: I’d love to join. Put me on a call.

Lil: You guys are crazy. But thanks.

Lil: I’m taking a hot bath and will head to bed. It’s been a long day.

Mary: Okay, but let’s do it soon.

Lil: We could, when Gem’s back?

Gemma: I’m in.

Lil: Love you both ?

Gemma: Love you, too ?

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