Page 80 of Just Breathe

Aiden

Iglanced at my phone for the tenth time in less than an hour. I was eager for Cal and Jane to return, making me feel like I was way out of my element. I was used to control and order, but Jane had thrown that out of the window with that damn picture of her in that sexy ass dress last night. If I had to guess, Jane and Callum fucked each other’s brains out last night. I wasn’t one to be jealous, especially with Nathan and Cal, but I was lying in bed, thinking about what the hell they were doing.

I couldn’t stand just waiting at home. I came over to Jane’s house to finish up some stuff to get ahead of schedule, even though we couldn’t get someone out to inspect the plumbing and electrical until Monday. Might as well get started on some other shit, like installing flooring and grouting tile. I put some music on, getting to work on grouting the bathroom tile.

It was surprising how quickly I could get through my list of shit I wanted to do. Working with my hands drowned out everything else, letting me work through my anxiety and putting me at ease. Before I knew it, my phone pinged, letting me know I had a text.

Looks like they delayed us another hour. Jane is getting tired of waiting. We might try to take another flight if we can,Callum texted me.

Ok let me know when you board a plane,I replied, getting a little anxious again. I set my phone down again, ready to go back to work, when another text came through.

I think she might be open to new things,Callum texted.

I knew it might be a long shot, but Callum wasn’t always optimistic and him saying that gave me a little hope that she might be into a group thing.

Did you ask her? We can’t assume and then push her too far,I replied, looking at my phone for a fast response, but of course he took his sweet ass time.

Those three dots appeared and disappeared. I rolled my eyes, thinking I was like a high school girl waiting to hear if her crush liked her or not. I chuckled, thinking, I’ve never felt like this before with a girl we decided to pursue together. Not wanting to wait around for a response, I turned up my music up and went back to work enjoying the distraction, even though occasionally I was thinking about Jane screaming my name while I devoured her.

Ok, who was I kidding myself? I think I thought of her like that more often than I’d like to admit. I finished up the bathroom, cleaning up, making sure it looked finished and neat. My phone pinged again, making me excited for the response. I took a minute before picking up my phone, trying to show some restraint.

We found another flight. We will leave in an hour. Think you could pick us up? I offered one of our cars, so she didn’t have to get a rental.

I wondered if this was a part of a plan to see her more or what was up Callum’s sleeve.

Of course. I have bad news for her. We couldn’t get inspection till tomorrow, so we won’t have running water or electric at her house yet. Offer the guest bedroom?

You sure you tried to get inspection?he responded.

I laughed.Of course.

Sure. I haven’t heard from Nate. Is he functioning?

I took a breath, thinking about Nate. I saw him twice this weekend and each time he looked worse for wear.Not really. Haven’t heard from him since yesterday. Maybe hearing Jane is staying with us will help him.

Nate blamed himself for his sister’s death, something Callum and I have been trying to show him it wasn’t his fault. Guilt was a horrible emotion, something I think all of us had, but Nate took it to a whole other level. It didn’t help that his mom reminded him of his guilt every year. My phone pinged again with a new message.

Can’t wait to see you guys. Almost on our way.Jane started a group chat with all three of us. She also sent a picture of her and Callum waiting. She looked thrilled, more carefree than she has been, but I’m sure Callum had something to do with that too.

I also want to make sure it’s ok if I stay tonight. Don’t feel obligated to say yes,Jane typed out.

You can sleep in my room,Nate responded. I knew he would come out of the woods for her.

I’m definitely ok with it. We can head straight to the house for inspection, and you can see all the new things that have we have finished,I responded.

So excited! We should land around 6pm. See you soon. *Kissing emoji*

Not even two seconds after she responded, Nate’s name appeared on my phone.

“I’m glad to see you’re alive,” I said sarcastically.

“Did they fuck?” he asked, not even acknowledging my statement.

“What do you think, man?” I was trying not to be irritated with him, but if he would just respond to texts from us, he would know.

“Is she down?” He sounded like he was barely getting up.

“I don’t know. Callum seems to think it’s a big possibility, but don’t get your hopes up,” I said, hoping she was.

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