Page 27 of Holiday Friend Zones
It’s not an outright lie.It’s not like I’m going out with Chase this weekend.It’s not like we’re even goingoutout.I’m going to the bar.But I don’t want to have to lie to one of my closest friends.
The four of us have all grown up together, and even though we went our separate ways for college, we all came back to our small town.
It’s home.I’ve never wanted to leave.
“If you’re up for a movie night or something at my place, let me know.”
“I think I can manage that.”
I stab my fork into my haphazardly cut piece of pancake and take a big bite.I’ve never been shy about eating, and don’t care that I’m stuffing my face.After a long day at the diner, it’s just what I need.
“Good.I can grab us pizza for dinner if you want.”
All I can manage is a nod around the bite in my mouth before swallowing.
“As long as it’s not from the Hash ’N Hop, I’m good.I’ll bring us some wine.”
“Perfect.”Presley pops another perfectly sized bite of pancake into her mouth and chews.
“When did our lives become so exciting?”I laugh.
“My life has always been like this.If a wine night is as exciting as it gets, I’ll take it.You at least can go out if you want.”
“Nah.There’s no one really in town that I want to date.”
“Really?You sure about that?”There’s a knowing look on her face.
“If I wanted to find someone, I’d have to go to Honey River, and I’m not about to drive two hours for a man.”I shake my head.“No way.”
“Hmm.Okay.”
I point a finger at her.“No talking about my dating life.It’s dull and boring, and that’s all you need to know.”
Again, not necessarily a lie, but I don’t want to start telling everyone that I have feelings for Chase.Even if she might sense it.
Nope, not going there.
“And on that exciting note, I have to go pick up Poppy.”
Presley slides out of the booth and leans down to give me a hug.
“Tell Pop Aunt Rylee will see her this weekend.”
“I will.Bye, babe.”
“Bye.”
I watch as she heads back across the street and gets into her car.I scarf down the rest of my pancakes and make the short walk to my place.It’s not far from the diner—walking distance, as everything in town is except for the old ranch.
I’m thankful right now because I’m ready to go and see Chase.
And can’t wait to see what the night brings.
ChapterFour
CHASE
The bar is crowded tonight.Even with no live music, it’s packed to the brim.Especially since it’s one of the only places to come at night in town.
