Page 47 of Only Everything
“… No. I’m fine. Just curious about your plans. What are they?”
Desperation. “I got an email last night from one of my friends I was stationed with reminding me that they’re passing through. They want to spend the day together. Maybe even do something tonight.”
She smiled. “That sounds fun. Is it Lucas? I haven’t met him in person yet. I think I’d really like to. He obviously cares for you.”
I kept the emotion off my face, instead watching hers.
“Brittany.”
The smile melted, and a cascade of expressions flashed. She took a small step back, letting her gaze drop through what I knew were racing thoughts. She hadn’t been prepared for me seeing another woman. Maybe it had never even dawned on her. Hell, it was immature and desperate, but I had to see how she’d react.
“…Oh. Of course.”
“I could cancel if you need me.”
Her mouth opened but closed.
“N-No. I…I’ll be fine. Maybe I’ll job hunt after all. I mean, I do need a job.”
She paused…waiting? When she turned to leave, I let her. A small bang sounded, followed by one louder than the last. I leaned back on the sofa, waiting. When Tauren finally walked out, she was wearing a pair of white flats. Her hair was pulled back loosely, and aside from the mascara, she didn’t have much makeup on like she usually did.
“Did you want me to pick up something for dinner?”
“Eh.” I shrugged. “I really don’t know yet. She mentioned going on a possible hike, grabbing lunch, and then maybe catching a movie. I can text you. I’m not sure how long that will take.”
Tauren grabbed her purse, clutching the keys from the counter.
“Wow. Are you sure you’re both just friends? That sounds more like a date.”
“She wishes.” I laughed. “We’re friends.”
For seconds, Tauren waited for me to continue. When I didn’t, she gave a curt nod.
“Alright. I’ll worry about my own dinner. Have fun. I’ll see you later.”
Just before she got to the door, I sat forward.
“Tauren.”
Her dress flared out as she spun back to me. Hope? I knew that look. That emotion. It was there…lingering. Waiting for me to tell her I had changed my mind.
“Yeah?”
“If I’m not home by eleven, lock the door. And the deadbolt.”
Her nostrils flared and the anger grew. She slammed the door shut, stomping back in my direction.
“Are you insinuating you might be spending the night with her?”
“Would you give a shit if I did?”
Back and forth her head shook. Tauren gripped to thestrap of her purse, adjusting it on her shoulder as she shifted on her feet. The hurt in her eyes was so thick I could taste the betrayal she felt for me.
“No, Reid. Fuck whoever you want. I’m out of here.”
I lunged from the couch, grabbing and spinning her to me before she could so much as take a step. I forced her to lay on the sofa as I covered her body with mine. Pressure pushed against me, but I quickly pinned her wrists down with one of my hands.
“Let’s try that again.”
