Page 47 of Imperfection is Beauty

Pulling up the message thread, I started typing.

Me –How are you feeling? All healed up?

Almost as if he was staring at his phone, he texted me back instantly.

Marcus –One more week of rehab and doc said I was good to go.

Me –That’s awesome! I know you have to miss it.

Marcus– Not tired?

Me –Not really. Hungry. Umm, what are you doing right now?

Marcus –Looking at my ceiling fan and thinking of firing my cleaning lady.

Me –Why’s that?

Marcus –I can see dust bunnies flying off the blades.

Me –Oh no, what will you do when they attack?

Marcus –LOL.

Marcus –Probably join them and then go irritate people.

I snorted.

Me –So, you’re free?

Marcus –Yeah, what do you need?

Me –Any chance I could text you a grocery list and you could grab the stuff and bring it over?

I thought I made him mad. And yes, I ended up chewing on my thumbnail, until my phone pinged with another text.

Marcus –Okay, I’m back. Had to get dressed first. Text me your list, Shortcake.

Smiling, I texted him my list.

And then an hour later there was a knock on my door.

Getting off my couch, I headed to the door, checked the peephole, and at the backward hat on his head, I felt my heart catch.

Once I unlocked the door, opened it, and smiled, I said, “Well, hello there.”

He snorted, then gave me an up-and-down look and winked.

That was when he stepped inside and placed the seven bags on my island.

Then I watched as his face morphed, and at first, I didn’t understand why he looked upset until he spoke.

“I’m so fucking sorry. I had intended to help you put them up and hang with you if you’ll let me. But the rehab center called and said they had a cancellation and could fit me in. If I get in right now, I just might get cleared. I may be able to fly and meet up with the team.”

“Then what the hell are you still standing here for? Go!”

He nodded, then saluted me with two fingers.

I walked him out of my apartment, and there, in my doorway, I watched him walk away. Damn, there was just something about a man in jeans, cowboy boots, a fitted tee, and a backward ball cap.

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