Page 42 of Undeniably Enemies

That’s what I have to focus on. Not the woman in the other apartment.

With that, I dig into my very spicy Thai. But it’s as if the universe gets off on fucking with me, and my phone vibrates on the counter beside me.

Wren: You have to tell me who you are so I can put this matter to rest.

I pause. I hesitate. I want to storm across the hall and… do what? I don’t even know anymore. Fuck her? Yell at her? For what? She’s not doing anything wrong. It’s me who’s having the problem, and I don’t want to think more about why that is.

Regardless, do I want her to know? Why couldn’t she just let this rest?

Because it’s Wren. That’s why.

Me: We had a night a while back that didn’t amount to anything. Just end it with that.

I set my phone down and take a bite of my spring roll.

Wren: But you remember me?

If only I could forget her.

Me: Yes.

Wren: And we only had one night?

Me: Yes.

Wren: But no sex.

It’s not a question, and I don’t answer her.

Instead I stare at my screen. I wonder if she’ll figure it out now. And because of all my bitterness, jealousy, and self-ridicule, I come back with.

Me: How many of those have you had that you’re unsure about it?

Wren: That sounds like judgment.

I sigh. I don’t want her to think that, even if it would be easier.

Me: It’s not. Just a curiosity. So how many?

Wren: How many of those have you had?

Christ, this girl. I drag a hand over the top of my head and eat a few more bites of noodles before I answer her. I shouldn’t have responded. But I’m starting to learn everything with Wren is something I shouldn’t do.

Me: I’ve had a few.

Wren: I’ve had a few, too.

Me: It would be better if you didn’t remember me.

Wren: Were you a jerk? Wait! Is this Cutler?

Me: Who the fuck is Cutler?

Wren: The frat boy asshole who tried to take too much.

My jaw clenches, and I already know I won’t survive this. Was that dickwad the reason she offered up her virginity at a Hollywood party? Or is he the reason that Sorel said she’s had it rough?

Me: No. I’m not him. I liked the night we had together.

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