Page 32 of Thanks for the Memories
“Any friend of Reagan’s is welcome,” she says with a shrug. “I’d love to stay up and chat, but I’m exhausted.”
Gabby and I glance at each other. It’s not often that Lila doesn’t want to talk after a date. It’s obvious that something’s bothering her. Maybe things didn’t go well with Jordan? Oh well, she’ll tell us when she’s ready.
“Don’t worry. Bethany’s here all week,” I tell her.
Lila gives a little wave and heads to her room. Gabby also goes to bed, leaving Bethany and me alone again.
“I’m so excited about this vacation I’m not sure I’ll be able to sleep, but that’s what my dear friend melatonin is for,” Bethany says with a laugh.
“Let me know if you need anything, and just make yourself at home.”
“Thanks, Reagan,” she says, throwing her arm over my shoulders. “We’re going to have so much fun, just like old times.”
After I crawl into bed, I don’t fall asleep right away. I’m so relieved that everything went smoothly tonight. Maybe it is possible for things to be the way they used to be, and maybe I finally have my best friend back again.
Chapter Ten
When I open my eyes, the sun is peeking into my room. I stretch out and hug a pillow to my chest. It’s seven thirty—which on most days is considered sleeping in for me—and it feels glorious. This is the first vacation I’ve taken since I started with MLH, and there’s a part of me that feels guilty about it, like I’m leaving my company in a bind. I mean, it’s not like they would crumble without me.
When I finally pick up my phone, there’s a text from Jeremy waiting for me, which makes my heart do a flip.
I know you’re on vacation, but check your email if you have a second. We got a mention in the Hotel Business magazine. Congrats, partner.
His message makes me shoot out of bed. I quickly open my emails and search for Jeremy’s name. I can hardly contain my excitement as I read through the article he sent. I’m not one who thrives on recognition, but this is definitely a great way to start the day. I lean back on my pillows and send him a response.
I just read it. So exciting. Thanks for letting me know.
Not even a minute passes before he sends me a response.
I know. I’m celebrating at Donut Giant and then a run.
I laugh. I guess that’s the way to do it—eat all the donuts and then runs them off. It actually makes sense.
I wouldn’t expect any different. You’ve earned it.
I bite my lip as I stare at my phone.
Aw, Blondie, I wish you were coming to the office so we could celebrate together.
As I read his text, that familiar flutter returns to my stomach. I don’t even know what to think at this point. Is this his way of telling me he has some feelings that go beyond friendship? A bit of playful conversation isn’t enough to convince me of that, and this isn’t my first rodeo.
My first job out of college, I worked with a guy who was super-hot. I’m talking superhero level hot. We flirted all the time, but nothing ever came from it. Doesn’t everyone have a person in their lives like that? And it’s completely possible that I’m just reveling in the attention Jeremy gives me. Who doesn’t like to feel noticed?
After a few minutes another text hits my phone.
How’s your friend?
I roll over and pull my white comforter under my chin. Last night was so great, and it reminded me how important my friendship with Bethany really is.
Really good so far.
I chew on my fingernail while I wait for him to write back. This is crazy. Jeremy and I have texted many times since we started working together, but for some reason this conversation feels different.
Awesome. You need to introduce her to Donut Giant at least once before she leaves. It won’t be a complete vacation without it.
I smile to myself. He has a point.
Definitely.
