Page 39 of My Book Boyfriend
“My grandfather admits he didn’t have much time for his sons because he was so busy building the company, so he wanted a second chance with me and Rowena. And he wanted to spend time with my grandmother. She got sick.”
He stops. I wait.
He looks off into the distance. “He made me want to continue what he started. Plus, there’s nothing like that excitement when you first review the architectural plans, and then when you watch the building emerge. Or meet the families who are getting the affordable housing units. When the skyline changes because of a building you developed. When I see people living in what I envisioned.”
I look down. Do they already have the architectural plans that destroy our garden? I want to enjoy this time together, but his history only reminds me of why the garden is so important to me.
“We will also include affordable housing in this project, so there’s that.”
It’s true. I’ve been impressed by what I read about many of their projects.
The strains of “New York, New York” filter out from the dance floor.
“That’s probably the last song,” he says. “Shall we head home?” He stands and takes my hand to pull me up.
As we walk down the hallway to the front entrance where the coat check is located, he also looks like he’s searching for someone. My time is already done.
He stops, and when I glance at him, he looks pale.
“Did you check your coat? I’ll get it for you if you want to meet me by the exit,” he says. “There’s a bench there where you can rest your feet.”
“Okay. I should tell Aiden I’m leaving.” I hand my plastic chip to Rupert, but he seems to be dismissing me. My stomach sinks a little. The spell is over. This is probably the end for us. He will probably disappear into his waiting limo, and I will go my separate way by subway. Because even if he offers me a ride, the clock has struck midnight, and I need to return to my reality.
I sit on the bench by the door and check my phone. Not even a text from Aiden.
I was so stupid. I can’t believe I crushed on him for a year. He was the one who first left a book in a bag on my doorknob with a note:Thought you might enjoy this.
And then I gave him that plant and invited him for dinner to thank him.
Then we took turns inviting each other over for Sunday brunch. He clearly liked me as a person, but not as a partner.
Did he plan this? Couldn’t he have just said no when I asked him? Or at least paid for his own ticket.
I text Aiden that I’m leaving.
Couples leave holding hands, some tottering as if they’ve had too much to drink, some giddy with joy from the evening. The grandeur of Astor Hall is imposing. The walls are filled with written inscriptions giving thanks to farseeing, wealthy benefactors who established the library. To paraphrase our former library president, a library serves democracy, as all it asks of its patrons is curiosity. It makes me feel proud to be a librarian. I’m part of this world of education, providing access—and chances—to everyone.
And then I see Aiden and Everly, kissing by the archway.
I stare at them for a moment but then turn away and look for Rupert, who is still standing in line. I got the better end of the deal. I’m lucky Rupert was here. He turned this date disaster into a fun night. Rupert’s glance meets mine, and he grins at me from his place in line.
Yes. Everly can have Aiden.
Chapter eleven
Rupert
Thecoatchecklinewinds down the corridor behind Astor Hall.
I like Lily.More than like.I need a moment alone to process that.
I knew I liked her, but not enough that I couldn’t say goodbye.
I’m still here. I’m not going to run away. Even if for a second there … I take a deep breath.
I cross my arms.This is not good.
Or it’s very good. I run my hands through my hair.
