Page 20 of Legally Binding
“Are we sure he’s breathing?” Gideon asks while typing on his laptop.
We’re in our shared office space, and it’s almost the end of the day. My watch has basically stopped moving because time feels like it’s standing still. I’m forcing myself to wait until five on the dot to leave because that’s what time Piper told me to come home. She said she wanted to make dinner for me and it wouldn’t be ready until then.
Spencer shakes his head grimly as he takes a seat next to me. “Death by blue balls, it’s truly the silent killer.”
“Shut the fuck up,” I groan as I raise my head off the table and lean back in my chair. “It’s not blue balls.”
“Really? So you’ve gotten your roommate in your bed? Funny, I assumed you’d be happier after that.” Gideon and Spencer share a laugh at my misery.
“She’s not my roommate,” I snap defensively. “And not that it’s any of your business, but she’s not sleeping in my bed.”
Much to my immense displeasure, but I don’t say that part out loud. It’s been a few days since Piper moved in, but I’m determined to take things slowly. I’ve kept a tight leash on every part of me when I’m near her, only allowing for brief kisses here and there.
In my mind, she’s like Garfield. She’s come from a rough situation, and now she’s in a new environment. I don’t want to overwhelm her all at once. Keeping her happy and relaxed is my priority, and I know in time, I’ll win her over.
“Is that why you look like shit?” Spencer asks.
“Do I have a bullseye somewhere?” I look down at my shirt, and Gideon laughs.
“No, but you can’t mope around because you’re trying to stay away from the woman you’re obsessed with and expect us not to give you shit.” Spencer doesn’t bother looking up from his screen as he says it.
“I’m not moping.” I sigh as I rub a hand down my face. “It’s fine. I’m the happiest I’ve ever been.”
“Clearly.” Gideon tries to hide his smile, but it’s no use.
“I am, I just…” The knot in my stomach tightens as I feel their eyes on me. “Guys, I love her.” A long silence follows the admission. “Well, say something.”
“The sky is blue.” Spencer looks at Gideon. “Grass is green?”
“Hmm, let me think. Oh yeah, water is wet.”
“Fuck you both,” I grumble and look at my watch again. Five more minutes.
“Seriously, Landon, did you think we didn’t know?” Gideon asks. “You’ve been like this since the day you met her. What made you think it was going to get better over time?” He sits back in his chair. “See, this is why I stay single. I don’t want to do whatever the fuck this is.” He waves his hand in my direction and shakes his head. “No thanks.”
“Come on, we’re just giving you a hard time.” Spencer closes his laptop and comes over to sit on the other side of me. “We’re happy for you.”
“Speak for yourself,” Gideon mumbles.
“Well, I’m happy for you. Gideon hides his emotions in sarcasm because he’s afraid of commitment.” Gideon tries to interrupt, but Spencer keeps going. “But this is a big deal, Landon. Don’t you think you should tell Piper?”
“No, not yet.” I shake my head and push back from the table. “I’m not doing anything to scare her off. She’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and I don’t want to send her running.”
“Have you considered she could feel the same way?” Spencer asks.
“Are you listening to those therapy podcasts again?” Gideon makes a face like he’s tasted something bad. “Bro, we’ve talked about this.”
“If she feels the same way, she can tell me.” I grab my suit jacket off the chair and pull it on. “I’m letting her take the lead on this. She’s too important, and you guys know my past. I’ve got a fucked-up reality when it comes to relationships. Uncle Dino wasn’t exactly a family man, you know?”
“Nobody’s past is perfect,” Spencer says. “But you and Piper have the ability to create a better future. I think you owe it to her to be honest about your feelings and what you want in the relationship.”
“That’s it, I’m removing your Bluetooth.” Gideon pushes away from the table and grabs his jacket.
“All I know is, this is the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and I’m not going to fuck it up.” I check my watch again and see if I leave now I’ll be two minutes early. Close enough. “See you guys tomorrow.”
I hear the two of them arguing about relationships as I walk out of our shared office and head to the elevator. I already texted my driver to be waiting at the curb, so when I step outside, he’s there.
The whole ride to my penthouse my knee is bouncing, and I check the time. I don’t know why I’m extra anxious to get home today, but it’s probably because Piper said not to come home early. She said she was making something extra special and that it was a surprise. I didn’t think I liked surprises, but the thought of her doing something just for me has made me stupidly happy.
