Page 36 of Afterglow
A few weeks ago, I asked Jay for advice on how to get rid of the tension in my muscles. I laughed at him when he said his usual method is to get laid. Yeah, that option isn’t on the table.
After the situation at the party, I took it as an omen that orgasms with another person aren’t for me. Therefore, Jayden said he would take me to the gym which is his second option to release tension.
I agree to meet my brother at the gym, thankfully, giving me the excuse I need to escape the proximity of Theodore. He tilts his head, silently questioning what is happening.
I clear my throat. “Sorry, I forgot that I was meeting Jayden at the gym. I’ll see you later,”
Theodore’s face drops but he nods, nonetheless.
A deep breath finally hits my lungs when I leave Knight’s apartment. Being near him is not good for my sanity. Or my libido.
***
I slam my fists into the gloves Jayden is wearing.
“His stupid golden hair,” I huff out, through continuous punches. “His stupid smirk, I just want to wipe it off his face.”
Jayden chuckles at my dramatics. “I thought you found a therapist; can’t you rant to her about Theo. Or better yet, your roommates.”
After the situation that occurred at Theodore's house, punching anything is what I needed. Every time my fists pummel the gloves Jayden has on, I imagine Knight's face. A safe way of expelling the tension that always manifests when I'm near Theodore.
I huff, catching my breath before I reply. “You agreed to let me punch something, hence you also get to hear my ranting as well.”
I ignore the guilt that tingles in my stomach when Jay mentions my therapist. I cancelled my appointment last week because I picked up an extra shift at Strong Beans.
Dr Gray didn’t hide her concern over the phone but respected my decision nonetheless. With everything going on, I’m finding it hard to make time to see her so I will probably miss tomorrow's session as well.
I’ll be fine. My insomnia has been less active over the past couple weeks, which is a good sign. I stop punching the bag Jay is holding, pulling my boxing gloves off before unwrapping the tape from my wrists. Taking a deep breath, I stretch my arms and legs to cool my body back down.
I haven’t been a usual member at the gym since I left high school as I never have the time. But this session was great. I’m really glad my brother suggested it. Much better than his ‘you should get laid’ option.
My phone buzzes, Willow’s name appearing on the screen.
Willow Rogers:
Hey! I’m coming to Arizona for a week. Any chance I can stay with you?
Jazmine Allen:
Of course! I’m super excited, we can go out for drinks.
Willow Rogers:
Yes! Can’t wait, I am flying down tomorrow. Should be in around lunch time.
Jazmine Allen:
I have class until one o’clock but can pick you up after.
Willow Rogers:
Sounds great!
“Who are you texting?” Jayden asks.
“Willow. She is coming down for a week,”
Jay rolls his eyes, while his brows scrunch towards one another. My left hand is on my hip and right hand pointing directly at him. “I don’t want to hear anything from you, honestly, how hard is it to get along with one of my friends.”
