Page 48 of How to Marry the Boss

“What makes you think that?”

“A man doesn’t go to all this trouble just to give you mixed signals.”

“Then why did he stop at just kissing me? Why didn’t he take me to bed?”

“I think he’s trying to feel you out. He doesn’t want to scare you. And he’s also a gentleman. He didn’t want you to have any regrets after you sobered up.”

As much as I appreciate chivalry, I don’t know whether to feel rejected or cherished. He’s showing me a different side of himself than I’ve seen before. “Maybe.”

“When you think about being with Jake, what scares you?”

“A lot of things, mostly that he either sees me as Jonathan’s kid sister?—”

“Fair.”

“And, since we’re now roomies, a convenient notch on his bed post.”

“I understand that, given his history with women. But the man has jumped through a lot of hoops to get closer to you. If all he wanted was sex, I don’t think he would have tried this hard to get your attention.”

“Some players like the chase. They play the long game,” I point out.

“True, but manipulating women into bed doesn’t seem like Jake’s style. He’s a good guy, and too good-looking to resort to mind games. Also, you’re too important to him. Jonathan wouldrip him in two if he hurt you. Jake is a lot of things, but he’s especially loyal and compassionate.”

She’s right. Jake isn’t malicious or deceitful. I can’t help but reflect on the night of Josie’s birthday party, when he waited up for me. He cares deeply for the people in his life. Maybe…that includes me on some level.

“What other fears are in your head?” Kami fishes.

“Say he wants me as more than a friend, and we become a couple. What if his feelings are fleeting? What if, all along, everything in my heart is one-sided?”

“You’re listening to your insecurities and anxieties. And most of the time, those aren’t real. We have a choice to either believe them…or to take the leap of faith and look at things from the different angle.”

For years, my feelings for him have seemed utterly unrequited. The idea that he could feel the same way seems almost beyond comprehension. Then again, life works in mysterious ways, right?

“Are you telling me to just…set my fears aside?”

“I’m telling you to hear what he has to say and give him the benefit of the doubt before you start believing the worst-case scenario. Who knows? He just might surprise you.”

“How could he surprise me anymore than he already has?”

She shrugs. “I’m just saying, don’t discount Jake. Where is he now?”

“I’m not entirely sure. I snuck out. But I didn’t see his car in the lot, so I’m betting he’s at the gym.”

“And I’m assuming you two will talk once he gets back.”

I shrug. “I guess.”

“Before you go back to your place, shoot him a text and tell him you two need to talk. Showing your initiative will send the message that you’re willing to hear what he has to say.”

“Okay.” But I’m apprehensive as hell.

“Everything will be fine. Things have a way of working themselves out. Just listen to him. And even if he says something you don’t want to hear, at least you’ll know. Okay?”

No, it’s not okay, but at this point I don’t see many other options.

Jake

The music in my ears is fast and loud. Beads of sweat fall down my brow. I look in the mirror, and I realize that no amount of weights I lift is going to get me to Mia sooner. Only I can do that.

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