Page 69 of By His Play

Isit on the couch with Effie as another of hers and Grams’ favorite movies plays on the TV before us.

She’s lying across the cushions with her head in my lap. She hasn’t said anything or moved for the longest time; if she weren’t so tense, I’d think she’s fallen asleep.

But I know it’s not the case. As much as I wish she’d relax, she can’t.

She offered for her parents to come over, said she’d cook for them, but they refused, making the excuse that they’d be tired after their trip and would rather stay at the hotel. Alone.

Although it was to be expected, their words still hurt.

Honestly, I would be shocked if they turned up here. We already know they’re flying out again tomorrow night. Mr. Campbell’s meetings are just too important to put off for more than a day, apparently.

How Grams managed to end up with such a selfish prick like him is beyond me. Both her and her late husband were such wonderful people; they deserved so much more from their only son.

Reaching out, I gently pull a lock of Effie’s hair from her face and tuck it behind her ear.

I’m not surprised when my knuckle runs through tear tracks.

I don’t say anything. There is nothing to say.

Nothing can make any of this better.

She snuggles against me, and I continue stroking her hair softly.

Closing my eyes, I rest my head back against the couch, and instantly, my mind goes back there.

To the dressing room.

Fuck.

I was seconds away from doing it.

I was going to kiss her.

Effie has been my best friend for over a decade, but I’ve never felt that magnetic pull toward her before.

Hell, I’ve never felt that pull toward anyone before.

Certainly not the jersey chaser working in the store.

I wasn’t lying when I told Effie that she was nothing.

I humored her, sure. But only because I have to.

Watching Effie’s reaction though...that was fucking priceless.

She’s been my wingwoman more times than I can count. But she has never before shown any true jealousy.

It was…incredible. Terrifying. Confusing. But incredible.

It messed with my head. That’s the only reason I can come up with for why I nearly lost my mind.

I can’t kiss her.

She’s my best friend.

My ride or die.

The one genuine person I know I can always count on to be there for me.

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