Page 34 of I Can't Help It

A record scratches somewhere, and I almost choke on my salad as I swallow.

Oh no. This is it.

She’s going to finally tell me.

“Luke!” Ava exclaims as I’m plagued with a coughing fit.

“I’m okay,” I wheeze out, drinking some of my water. “I’m—”

More coughing.

Ava immediately stands and comes around to gently pat my back.

I should tell her to stop, especially since the coughing will pass soon, but her touch feels good. It feels too good, and I’m desperate for more.

So much more.

Her hand moves in a relaxing, circular motion before coming to a slow stop, and she leans over my shoulder to look at me expectantly. “Better?”

Yes.

Her face is inches away from mine, and I find myself wanting to get lost in those green eyes. I want to erase the space between us and press my lips against hers. I want to pull her onto my lap and hold her close. I want—

No.

This can’t be happening.

I won’t let it happen.

“I-I need to do something!” I blurt out, scrambling to get up from the table. “The bathroom—I need to use the bathroom!”

And in saying that, I let out a shuddery breath as I leave the dining area.

* * *

A grown man should not have to hide in a bathroom to avoid being around the woman he’s crazy about; but here I am. I’ve already scolded my reflection for letting things get so out of control, and I splashed my face with water at least three times to help regulate my body temperature.

After I’m calm again, I decide to go back out there. Imagine my surprise, though, when I see that Ava and her weird chili are gone from our table. What the—

My eyes land on the pastel blue sticky note attached to my chair, and I snatch it up faster than I can blink. I guess Ava uses sticky notes even when she’s not at work.

Hey, I’m not feeling the best, so I’m going upstairs to nap for a little bit. Don’t choke on any more salad unless someone else is around. -Ava

I’m sure the last part is supposed to make me laugh, but all I can focus on is the first part. Is it her head? Or did the chili make her sick? I knew there was something wrong with that combo!

While I’m debating if I should go check on her or not, my phone buzzes.

Ava.

Nope.

It’s a text from Wyatt. His timing is unbelievable.

Wyatt: How’s the work trip, bro?

Wyatt: Did you find a souvenir for me yet?

No, but I’ve almost kissed your ex-girlfriend more than once.

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