The plans for the new company are under way, with the help of Raze, who has asked to come on board with being an owner. In the meantime, however, we’re both keeping ourselves busy with my house. Construction began last week, and Sam insisted on us using one of my teams to do it. He’s also allowed me to work on it with them, not just as the lead architect, but also as one of the builders.
I need to keep busy. I need my head to stay occupied, otherwise I’ll do something reckless. I’ll message her, call her, go see her, anything that goes against what she needs right now.
Wren has held onto her grudge a lot longer than I thought she would, so that’s been fun. Living in the same house has been exceptionally awkward, even though she’s barely home now that she’s avoiding me. From what Gus has told me, she still hasn’t spoken to Oakleigh either, and every time I see her, an argument ensues because I don’t want Oakleigh suffering.
At least Oakleigh’s been getting some good news lately. A news article circled around the group; an article that told of her new book deal with one of the top publishers in the country. A fucking six-figure deal. I’ve never been so proud of her. She’s obviously put everything into finishing that novel.
Raze created a group chat with everyone in—no idea why none of us thought to do that sooner. When Bash sent the article round the group, the messages flowed instantly. I wanted to write a message of my own, I really did, but I just didn’t know what to say or how it would be taken, so instead I opted for a much more lovestruck option. I snuck over to her house and left ten newly crocheted flowers in a little bouquet on her doorstep. I have no idea if she kept them or threw them away, but I wanted her to know how proud I am; how much I believe in her.
God, I miss her so much. Every day feels like a trial, and I fear I’ll lose it eventually.
My phone buzzes in my pocket and I lean forward in my seat to slide it out.
After Raze created the group chat, Bash of course had to go ahead and make one without the girls in it that he called “Finn’s Therapy.” I told him not to, especially considering the fragile state of Wren and Oakleigh’s friendship, but he reassured me that they have one with Oakleigh in it that I am excluded from.
Sam
@Finley stopped by your house and you’re not there. Don’t tell me you’re back sitting outside the house that is not even a house yet.
Raze
I don’t know where else you expected him to be.
Sam
Somewhere healthier? A fast-food restaurant? A bakery? I’ve heard eating your feelings is a good technique.
Bash
This is terrible counseling.
Agreed.
Jamie
Come by the café, I’ll give you a pity coffee.
If I have any more coffee today, my heart might give out.
Jamie
A fucking green tea, then, just get your ass over here.
I haven’t finished these drawings, yet.
Sam
Yeah, because the fucking house doesn’t even have four walls yet. You can’t make drawings for the inside of a house that isn’t there.
I’m just that skilled.
Raze
Who wants in on the bet that says he hasn’t added anything to the last drawing?
Bash
Ah, hell yeah. I bet all he’s done is draw one line and erased it again.
