Page 29 of New York Love Stories: Vol. 1

It’s not that I didn’t think twice before I walked out of that hotel room. It’s that I knew nothing would come of hanging around.What could I possibly say to him?“We had fun playing games and having dinner together, you caught me before I hit the ground like a sexy superhero. I live in New York. You’re in LA. We make perfect sense, so should we make a go of it?”

No, of course not.

I had just gotten out of a terrible relationship.

Bi-coastal should be reason enough.

One night does not mean we’re meant to be.

It was a fantastic night, though. One of the best times I’ve ever had. That’s why I still think about Nick, but I can’t justify the time I’ve allowed myself to dwell on him.

Even the few crappy dates I’ve been on since May haven’t erased him from my thoughts.So what will?

Fingers crossed someone comes along who can end this ridiculous man ban, once and for all. Yes, I’m still on an embargo. When I met Nick, both love and sex were off-limits. As if one has anything to do with the other. I’ve learned it doesn’t, but I would have sacrificed that pledge to get physical with him. Now it’s been so long since I’ve had either that I’m open to one or both these days.

My best friend is a great friend, but I’m lonely when I lie in bed. I miss being held and falling asleep in Nick’s . . .I mean,in someone’s arms.

A text lights up my phone next to me on the bed. Holding it above me in the air, I read what my brother sent.

Jackson:Hey, you asked to let you know if I heard anything. Paperwork for your sign-on bonus crossed Dad’s desk today. Financially, it’s worth considering, especially since Mom and Dad created the position specifically for you.

My parents appreciate the dedication my younger brother has shown working there all during college. I appreciate having a spy amongst the ranks.

Me:Thanks for the heads-up.

Jackson:What are you thinking?

Me:I’m not. I’m processing what this means.

I know what it means, but I’d like to live in denial for a few more hours.

Jackson:I’ll see you tonight.

Me:See you, J.

Tossing my phone to the mattress, I sigh in frustration. How will I ever convince them for an extension when they’re already making alternate plans?For my life.

Getting up, I pull on my sneakers, needing to go on a run. It’s the only way for me to burn off this anxiety before seeing them this evening. If I don’t get rid of this nervous energy, then this celebration will turn into a disaster.

I tuck my phone into the pocket of my workout pants and head for the door. “Later, Tatum,” I call, and then wait.

She comes rushing from her bedroom right on schedule. “Before you go, how do I look?” She spins, her deep pink sequin minidress catching the light. I can tell how good she feels by the genuine smile.

It’s easy to tell her the truth. “You look beautiful.”

“Thanks.” Eyeing my workout clothes, she asks, “Shouldn’t you be getting dressed?”

Waving it off, I reply, “I have time. I need to fit in a run to get my thoughts straight.”

“Everything okay?”

“Fine.” I tighten my lips. “It will be fine. Don’t worry.”

“Okay. The champagne is chilling, and the hairstylist is on her way. I’ll have her do my hair first.” Her attention returns to the screen of her phone.

“I won’t be long.” I slip out. As soon as I close the door, I head to the stairwell, then rush through the lobby and feed out onto the sidewalk. The freedom of the outdoors fills me with relief the moment it hits my throat.

I start jogging, my life whirling around in my head and spinning faster with every step I take. I need to block out the constant reminder ticking I hear as soon as I wake up in the morning. I’m never able to forget that the countdown has begun.

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