Page 28 of Waiting for Redemption

Once she’s gone I get to work cleaning up the broken beer bottle and then start closing down the rest of the bar. The entire time my mind can’t seem to think of anything other than Ruby. The way she opened up to me tonight—and got me to open up to her—it felt like our friendship reached an entirely new level. Though tonight was one of the many times I’ve wished I could be so much more to her than just a friend. The war waging inside of me over not kissing her tonight,reallykissing her is downright painful. I told myself I wouldn’t be the one to ruin Ruby, but the more time that passes, the more I want to do just that. And I’d have a damn good time ruining every last inch of her.

* * *

Ruby

Hey, made it home safe!

Me

Glad to hear it. How’s little man doing?

Ruby

Not great. I think he’s actually got a stomach bug and I have no food to support his current dietary needs. Mom of the year, go me.

Me

What does he need?

Ruby

Oh, no. You don’t have to do that. I’ll just Instacart something.

Me

That service is such a rip off. I’m leaving the bar now. Send me a list.

Ruby

I really owe you one for this. Thank you.

Me

Nonsense Honey. I’m happy to help.

Ruby

If you say so.

Chicken noodle soup. (he likes the ones with the alphabet but I’ll take anything they have)

Gatorade. (lemon lime is his favorite)

Crackers.

And Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Half baked or brownie.

Me

Okay, I know I’m no expert, but he may not need ice cream right now.

Ruby

LOL. That part is for me. It’s my comfort food while I stay up all night making sure he’s okay.

Me

Got it. I’ll be there in half an hour.

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