Page 19 of Friends Rucked Up

He looks at his sister like he’s trying to figure something out. “Are you wearing the same clothes as the other night?”

Saylor can’t hide the cringe on her face. We discussed her outfit earlier, but she didn’t have many options. He would’ve noticed if she was wearing my clothes. They literally hang off her. I thought it was better for her to change but Harlan has a key eye and still saw the clues we were trying to conceal.

“Yes. I like these jeans and top.” She closes her eyes for a brief second, and I hope Harlan doesn’t notice she’s avoiding the truth.

“I think she looks good in them,” I say, trying to take a little heat off her.

Although, now we’re committed, there’s no going back. Telling Harlan his sister looks good and then admitting we’ve been sharing a bed is so much worse than just telling him what happened in the first place.

“Aren’t they paying you enough at the nursing home? If it was the day after our last conversation, I’d think you hadn’t been back to your apartment.” He laughs at his attempt at a joke and Saylor giggles nervously.

Heat creeps up her face and I see the moment she caves. “Fine. I didn’t want you to worry, but there was a fire in my block of flats.”

“Is everyone okay?” He looks genuinely worried as he focuses completely on her.

“Yes, but we had to find alternative living arrangements for the last couple of days. I couldn’t grab any clothes or home comforts.”

“Where have you been staying?” He studies us both intently, forgetting about the relaxing beach surrounding him.

My throat feels tight, and my muscles stiffen under his stare. This was not the plan.

“Alfie’s been good to me and let me stay here.” She smiles, but it looks wild rather than cute.

She’s cracking and I wish I could provide damage control without matching her crazy grin.

“I wondered why you chose to have this call over at his place.” His face is unreadable and it’s my turn to lose my composure.

“You’re not mad, are you?”Be cool, Alfie.

We haven’t done anything wrong. We’re just sharing an apartment like friends can when trouble strikes.

He scowls before his playfulness falls back into place. “Of course not. I just hope Alfie gives me as good a treatment as he is you, Saylor.” He laughs like he’s just told a funny joke.

Saylors shoulders relax as a hint of a genuine smile brightens her expression. “He’s been the perfect gentleman.”

“Good to hear.” He claps his hands showing how much that news pleases him.

Thankfully, the conversation steers back towards Harlan and his travels. Saylor relaxes even more, and by the time the call ends I’m not feeling so tense.

Not five minutes after, I get a text message from him. I open it, while making sure Saylor doesn’t see what he’s said.

Harlan: I hope you’ve given up your bed for her and are keeping your hands to yourself. ;)

The winky face is probably so it sounds like a joke, but I know he’s deadly serious. He’s always been protective of his sister, and I knew he wouldn’t be pleased she’s staying here.

Alfie: Don’t worry, I have everything under control.

That’s all I can say. I’ve been trying hard to fight my feelings for her. I’ve been a friend to her over the years and never overstepped. Less than ten seconds later another message comes through.

Harlan: I’m trusting you.

Pocketing my phone, I ignore his overprotective nature. I won’t let him put a dampener on the last night I have with my dream girl. Yes, I’m going to be respectful, but I will enjoy myself.

“I’m going to change,” Saylor says, slipping from the room.

I like that she’s going to put my clothes back on, but I don’t comment on it. Instead, I head to the kitchen and prepare our evening meal. I’m back to my usual schedule of chicken and rice. I’ll add some sweet chilli sauce on Saylor’s, but I usually have mine plain.

She comes to join me in the kitchen, and we work in unison to prepare the food before returning to the sofa while it cooks. She lays on her back putting her feet onto my lap.

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