It takes me too long to recover from his parting words, and the garage door opens and closes before I move again.
Could he really have feelings for me? Could I let my feelings grow for him? Would it work, or would I ruin it?
Shaking my head, I set out to do his dishes. And maybe a few other things like his overflowing laundry.
Not like I have anything else to do.
Me:Hey you. How are you doing today?
Giana:I’m good. Actually meeting some people and making friends.
Me:Oh yeah? That’s great. Am I getting ousted though?
Giana:Never. You’re my first friend. Just waiting for these benefits to kick in… Seems like maybe you’re more talk than action.
Me:I’m all action! Just been pulling a lot of shifts lately. Tired.
Giana:Yeah? Are you sure? You didn’t meet someone?
Me:Working a lot. Got a new tenant in my rental.
Giana:How is she? Hot?
Me:What if it’s a dude?
Giana:… is he hot?
Me:Are you asking your friend with benefits to hook you up?
Giana:I mean, there’s been no benefits yet. Maybe I just need someone with a little more push. It gets lonely over here.
Me:What part of Balsam Cliffs are you in? Usually the rumor mill’s going as soon as someone signs the lease but I haven’t heard anything about you yet. No rumors flying.
Giana:I like to keep a low profile.
Me:Don’t know how you do that in this town. Tell me your secrets.
Giana:Don’t make friends. >
Me:Seems like you’re making some though. Hopefully you can stay under the radar.
Giana:> One can hope. I don’t want to be the center of gossip. Not good for someone hiding from their past.
Me:It’s not good to not live your life either. You have to make sure you’re enjoying it, otherwise what’s the point?
Giana:Pretty wise there. Spoken from experience?
Me:You could say that. I spent a lot of time doing everything I could to keep everyone around me happy that I lost sight of keeping myself happy. I still struggle with keeping everyone’s needs above mine, but I’ve gotten a little better. Recently though, it’s taken a backseat. So, I don’t want you to do the same.
Giana:I’ll keep that in mind, Officer. Thanks.
Me:Anytime. I’m always here for sage advice.
Giana:Of course you are. The friend without the benefits needs to at least have good advice or what are you good for?
Me:I feel like you’re calling me out here for not meeting up with you. I promise I’m working a lot. >
Giana:Killing me with that uniform.
