Page 51 of A Grecian Getaway

“I’m sorry, Noelle. I hope that was okay. I’ve been wanting to try that for a while. And I know you still have feelings for Dem... Mr. Tall, Dark, and Handsome. But maybe I could help you forget him.”

He had a sweet smile on his face. Noelle was stunned. She’d never gotten the impression he was interested in her as more than just a friend. She touched her lips. That was the first time she’d been kissed since Demetri.She had opened up to Eli and Diana about her Grecian getaway and some of what happened. She hadn’t gone into the hot details, but Eli knew she’d fallen in love, or at least what she thought was love.Why would he kiss me, knowing I had feelings for someone else?“Eli, I don’t know if I’m ready. I don’t want to lead you on. I’m not over… him.”

Eli stood and took her hand. “I’m fine with us just having fun together and seeing where this goes. Whatever happens happens, and I won’t blame you if whatever this turns out to be is nothing. But I like you, Noelle. You are a great girl. I would be crazy not to at least try.”

“Thanks, Eli. I’m not sure how great I am, but I appreciate the kind words. You’re an awesome guy! I just think I need more time.”I hope time really can heal a broken heart.

Chapter 34

FRINGE BENEFITS ~Noelle~

Noelle rinsed her glass and set it in the dish drainer.She and Eli had been spending a lot of time together. She had grown more fond of him the more they got to know each other but not romantically. Her heart still belonged to a gorgeous, grumpy Greek halfway across the world.She took a deep breath and shrugged her shoulders.Don’t think about that now. They’ll be here soon! I can’t wait to introduce my best friends and brother to my new friends.

Claire, Caroline, and Niko were all coming for a visit and would arrive any minute. When she heard a knock, she tripped as she ran to the door. “I’m fine!” she yelled to the still empty room. When she finally opened the door and found her favorites waiting, all three girls screamed and hugged each other. Niko covered his ears and laughed. Noelle threw her arms around her brother, and they shared a big hug, too. She couldn’t wait to catch up with everyone. Even though they texted all the time, it was nice to be together in the same room.

Noelle pointed to Claire and Caroline. “I’m so happy to hear you haven’t killed each other and are actually having a blast living under the same roof.” Claire was still working at the doughnut shop and substitute teaching, hoping for a full-time job at the school where she was a substitute teacher. Caroline was busy with grad school and working at a coffee shop.

“If anyone gets murdered, it’ll be Claire. If she alphabetizes the things in our kitchen cabinets one more time…” Caroline rubbed Claire’s head. “Just kidding. You know I love you and I secretly love how organized everything is, though the alphabetizing is a little over the top.” Caroline leaned over and whispered into Noelle’s ear as she held up two fingers, “She seriously did that. Twice. But it is really easy to find things,” she winked.

“Soooo, Nikolas, how’s the law firm?” Noelle questioned.

“Good. Busy, but good.” Niko took a swig from his water bottle.

Noelle was so happy they were all together. Her mouth hurt from smiling. Today was the most she’d smiled in a very long time.

Noelle showed them her apartment. The girls would sleep in the extra bedroom and Niko would take the couch.

“Your place is adorable! I love all the things you have done with your shells you’ve collected. And the pictures are amazing! Did you paint these?”

“Yes, thank you! I’ve been crafting and painting in some of my free time. These are some of my watercolors. Painting is cathartic for me. In fact, I have a couple of paintings for you girls for your place... if you want them. No pressure!”

“If they are as gorgeous as these, we would love them!” Caroline motioned to Noelle’s paintings on the wall.

“Of course! I can’t wait to see them!” Claire agreed. “Ohh, and I LOVE the purple door. Nice touch.” Claire pointed to the front door.

“The landlord said he didn’t care if I painted, and I knew I wanted a purple one like Monica and Rachel. I’ll be right back.” Noelle ran to her room and brought out a few watercolor paintings. “Niko, I know you have a distinct style, but I made one for you, too.” She showed him the one she made for him. It was a cityscape.

Niko pulled Noelle into a hug. “These are beautiful, kiddo. I am really proud of you, and I love it.”

“Noelle, these are awesome! I can’t wait to hang them on our wall!” Claire clapped her hands together.

Caroline nodded in agreement. “This floral one is my favorite! I love the colors! But you know I loveturquoise and purple.”

Noelle’s phone dinged with a text, and she skimmed it. “Hey guys, my friend Eli wants to take us out on the town tonight. You up for it after your trip?”

“Of course,” Claire and Caroline yelled in unison.

They’re always up for a night out!

“I’m fine with it.” Niko gave a thumbs up.

“So this Eli? What’s the story with him?” Niko asked.

“Eli’s just a friend.” Noelle scratched her head.

“Does he feel that way?” Claire asked.

“Well, he knows I’m not really interested in anything else right now. So, I think he does.” Noelle shrugged.

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