Page 28 of Hesi-Dating
"You're beautiful and kind. And ballsy in dangerous situations. You're the someone I want. I hate that anyone made you feel you're not worthy."
"You have to let me go, but…" I backed out of the hug when it became obvious he wasn't going to let go first. "I'll still help out whenever you need a hand."
"Me too, for you." He nodded and got in his truck.
He didn't look back as he drove off, taking my heart with him.
Damn you, Nosh.
Fuck my life and not being able to make the one choice I wanted.
ChapterTen
SETH
Three weeks later…
My wedding date cancelled? It’d been a long shot my cousin from upstate wouldn’t bail—like she had—but I preferred not to be the only one in the wedding party without a date.
The rehearsal dinner tonight I could handle solo since my ex wouldn't be there, but she'd be at the event tomorrow. This would be the first time she’d have my ex-best friend on her arm and could gleefully rub my face in her romantic happiness. I didn’t want to come off as the loser without a date. Not because I cared to impress Kara. I didn’t give two shits what she thought. I hoped to avoid everyone's pity.
Henry made a noise where he sat next to me. I didn't have time to run him home after the latest vet visit, a follow-up on his infected paws. I put a hand on his head.
"It's too big an ask for Joley, isn't it? What choice do I have? The best man can't arrive without a date."
The hound cocked his head as if he understood me.
I was kidding myself if I didn't admit this had everything to do with my ex. I wanted her to think I could find happiness without her.
"Fine. I'll text her."
Can you talk for a minute? Got a favor to ask of you.
JOLEY
Sure.
She answered on the second ring.
"Hope I didn’t catch you at work," I said lamely.
"It’s 11 on a Thursday morning. I'm working. I think I still owe you a bit more than you owe me at this point after the tow and finding out you arranged to pay for the tire repair too. So, what’s the favor?" She sounded curious.
"This is a big ask, but I’m in a pickle. Feel free to say no. Will you go with me to a wedding on Saturday?"
"You want me to be your date?"
I slumped in my desk seat and glanced upward.What the hell was that on my office's ceiling?A pencil appeared to be stuck in a ceiling tile. I choked out, "Yes."
"Will it have a party with alcohol and dancing or be a dry wedding?"
"It’s not a dry wedding."
"Thank God. I don’t do those. Everyone stares at each other awkwardly and runs away within an hour of the end of the ceremony. Sure, I’ll go. What’s the attire for the event? Are we talking formal, semi-formal, church wear, backyard picnic?"
"Church wear."
"Is it in a venue or standard church and then we drive to a reception?"
