Page 131 of Catch Me
“Probably stupid things like deodorant and socks.”
“At least you’ll get paid for it.”
“I don’t need any more money.”
When he frowned, I looked away. My fingers twitched as I tried to fight the urge to look at my phone. After a minute, I gave in, only to find the same as the last three days. Nothing. I’d even texted him a few more times.
“I’ll be right back,” I said, getting to my feet.
It was stupid and maybe it crossed a line, but I had to knowsomethingor I would lose my mind.
Trav:Hey. Is Roman there for the holiday?
Tilian:Unfortunately. Why?
Trav:Why unfortunately? He mentioned that you guys were okay now
Tilian:LOL. We had a moment. Moment over. He’s being an ass and tried to start shit with Brooks. Good thing he doesn’t fight, but if Roman keeps pushing him, Brooks might have him assassinated
Trav:Ok, well thanks
Tilian:Why are u asking about Roman?
Trav:Just had a question about the project we worked on together. No worries
Tilian:I can tell him to call u
Trav:No. It’s not important
Tilian:Ok. Have a good Xmas
Well, he was alive. That was something. Alive and being an asshole, which couldn’t be a good sign, but he clearly didn’t want to talk to me.
Four days. There were still four days, but at this point, I didn’t have much hope. I was becoming bitter about it, and if he did talk to me before Monday, he’d need to explain what the hell was going on.
I unclenched my fist when Tessa came up to me, tail wagging as if she didn’t have a care in the world. Not too long ago, I’d feel about the same way.
“Hey, monster. You get one present tonight and the rest tomorrow. Let’s go pick one out.”
Chapter 40
Roman
Alex let out a sound that rivaled the roar of a T-rex as he clutched the new Xbox to his chest. I didn’t know what model they were on now, not that I’d have the money to buy one anyway. Naturally, it was from Brooks.
He was pissed at me for being a dick all week, but I didn’t really care how he felt right now. When he looked at me and winked, I rolled my eyes.
“Must be nice to have daddy’s money.”
It looked like he was ready to lunge at me, but Til leaned closer to him and started brushing his fingers through Brooks’ long hair. It made me think of how Travis’ had felt when I did the same thing. At the time, I thought it was the best feeling in the world. I still did, actually.
“Okay,” Mom said. “That’s enough pestering. Roman, I shouldn’t have to tell you this. You’re an adult.”
“Is he?” Brooks asked, cocking his head.
I got to my feet and ignored my mom when she called my name. Fresh air was what I needed right now.
Sitting on the deck, I looked out at the yard. It felt similar to his but not the same. The view wasn’t as nice, and somehow, it didn’t feel as peaceful.
