Page 54 of You Were Invited
The shaky, singular thought that burst through the self-deprecating nonsense was unexpected and at once comforting. She wasn’t sure where it had come from, but she was grateful. Going back to school for cooking, as Serene Hallowbrew had suggested days before, wouldn’t be practical, but a job in food service felt less abysmal than her current predicament. The sudden optimistic feeling within her told her that everything would be okay, that a new beginning would eventually find her, and that she would find a new place of her own.
She also had the urge to text Julian. To confide in him. Could he offer any advice on starting over?
Her heart immediately resumed its needful ache. Molly was right.
She like-liked Julian.
She had many burning questions with much-needed, serious answers.
Where do you see this going, Julian? We kissed, and it meant something... do you like me the same way I like you? Could we make this work?
It was disgustingly difficult to ignore something shiny, sexy, and almost too good to be true when it was right in front of her; she knew, without doubt, that her heart was determined to pry her mind open, and keep it open to the possibilities.
Maybe we could make something work? Maybe it’s not about accidentally leading him on… but moving forward with him?
Maybe there’s more than just a few kisses…
She didn’t think he was only interested in just sex. She tried to imagine how he might react if she shared her feelings, but she could dream of a thousand-million scenarios, and only know the truth… if she was brave enough to ask for it.
Biting her lip, she picked up her phone. She texted Julian to ask if he was busy. She was sure it would take him a few minutes to reply. To her surprise, before she had the chance to put her phone down to the side, she received a response.
Watching a movie. What’s up? (sent at 6:49 pm)
Want to come over? I have something to discuss with you. Nothing bad. (sent at 6:50 pm)
Her hands trembled. This time, it took him several minutes to answer. Biting her nails, she waited.
Sure. Could use a little fresh air. I have something I need to tellyou too. (sent at 6:59 pm)
Annie blinked.What could that mean?She thought for a moment. Did he want to officially profess his feelings, too? She couldn’t think of anything other than that—whether or not he was going to agree with her or wish her well and send her on her way was to be seen. She had all but friend-zoned him the other night. It wasn’t her intention to make it seem like she was playing games, and she hoped he hadn’t begun to see it that way.
“Get some, girl!” Serene Hallowbrew laughed.
Ignoring her initial instinct to chide the imaginary fae, Annie allowed herself to smile, with hope. Gathering her nerves, Annie texted him back.
OK see ya soon. (sent at 7:01 pm)
twenty
The best thing to do was give Annie space. Or at least that’s what Julian told himself while he rested at his cabin, watching a movie, missing her company. He couldn’t distract himself like usual with woodworking, and he quickly realized how little else his days consisted of besides eating and sleeping.
I really do need to broaden my interests…
He wanted to touch her again. She was so soft in his arms, and he enjoyed the sweet scent of her hair as he tasted her mouth. He admired the little expressions she made when she was solving a problem — or thinkin’ about kissing him. When he’d been on top of her the other night, breathless, he’d wanted to wolfishly tear off her shirt and unhook her bra.
Just to start.
Despite knowing that she’d eventually leave, he’d fallen for her.
Hard.
Damn…
From the very first moment they’d met, he’d found her attractive. Sweet. Funny. As they’d spent more time together, he could see how caring she was. And of course she was a terrific cook. His thoughts were full of her.
Annie was right — things were complicated. He hated how right she was. But what he hated most was how he’d let himselfpretend that once she went back home, he wouldn’t be forced to go back to his life all alone, too.
He’d texted Annie goodnight and good morning, but her responses were sparse. Today she’d had another long day of work. It saddened him when he realized just how much he’d worn open the crack in her facade, and how she must have realized it, too, and closed it back up. He was surprised when she texted to ask if he was busy.
