Page 49 of Thanks for the Memories
The remainder of the day is uneventful. Bethany and Paul are definitely hitting it off, while Lila and I continue to chat with some of the other guests. I’m trying to stay engaged in conversation, but my mind is a million miles away. As soon as we get back to the marina, Jeremy is one of the first people off the boat. Part of me is relieved, and part of me wishes I hadn’t been so dramatic after he pulled back from our kiss. Maybe Jeremy is as surprised about his feelings as I am about mine.
At least I’m on vacation for the week, but before I know it, I’ll be at work sitting a few feet away from him. Maybe it’s better for us to have time to think about things.
I ask Bethany if she’s ready to leave, and she nods. As we step off the boat, Paul is whispering something in Bethany’s ear, and she’s smiling. I’m very curious to get the scoop from her, but more than that, I’m so ready to go home.
As soon as we’re in the car, I ask Bethany about Paul.
“He’s adorable.” She can’t stop giggling, and I’m wondering how many drinks she consumed.
“You spent most of the day with him. That’s all you have to say?”
She leans her head against the seat. “No, he’s a lot of fun too.”
“Are you going to stay in touch?”
“Yeah, probably.”
She yawns loudly and closes her eyes. Obviously, she’s as exhausted as I am. Not even a minute later, she’s lightly snoring. I guess that’s the end of our conversation for the night, and I’m relieved. I’m much too tired to answer questions she might have about finding Jeremy and me together on the boat. I’ll give my friends an earful tomorrow when I’ve had time to absorb the fact that my path crossed with Jeremy’s yet again. Only this time it was more than an impromptu brunch with my sister and friend.
As soon as we get home, Bethany rouses slightly, gives me a hug, and drags herself to the guest room.
Lila is already in her room, and Gabby must still be next door at Theo’s.
I quickly slip out of my dress and into my new pajamas. I hear my phone buzzing from inside my bag. When I finally look, I find two text messages. One from Kennedy and one from Dante.
How’s your visit with Bethany going? I sent Evan’s mother to the spa for the day. It’s been so peaceful, and she loved it. Win-win. Call me.
I roll my eyes.
When I read Dante’s text message, my heart skips a beat.
Loved seeing you this morning. Can’t wait for you to come to Golden.
I type a response.Same. See you soon.
I reread it a few times, wondering if it sounds short. Honestly, I don’t know what else there is to say. Seeing Jeremy on the boat has really thrown me.
I don’t change anything and hit send.
I stare at my phone waiting for him to respond, but he doesn’t. I’m sure he’s still at the restaurant, so his texts are sporadic.
I stretch out on my bed and stare at the ceiling. My brain immediately replays my kiss with Jeremy.
I sigh. What happens next? Are things going to be incredibly awkward at work? Will I have to quit? I love my job at MLH.
Whoa. I’m probably getting way ahead of myself. I just need to stay focused, be professional, and rise to any challenge in front of me. Thankfully, I don’t have to worry about it until I return to the office next Monday. I’m not expecting any more surprise run-ins with Jeremy, although I didn’t think I’d seeing him running on the beach or on Paul’s boat either, so I guess I can’t be too sure.
* * *
When I open my eyes, my head is pounding. I knew I was going to regret those two drinks I had on the boat. Yes, it was only two, but that was enough. What makes me feel even worse is that I fell asleep without taking my makeup off or brushing my teeth. Honestly, there’s nothing more wretched than a face full of yesterday’s makeup and morning alcohol breath.
It’s only six thirty, so I drag myself to the bathroom to clean myself up and then crawl back into bed. I search for my phone which has fallen somewhere in my sheets. When I finally find it, I’m surprised to see another text message from Dante at one thirty a.m.
Just got home from the restaurant. Wondering if you’re still up?
Maybe my text did cause a reaction from him. I doubt he’s awake especially after being up so late, but I text him back anyway.
Sorry. I fell asleep. Everything okay?
