Addison:And thank you for not starting anything with Matt.
I smirk at the message. I sit up a little straighter, thumb flying over the screen before I can stop myself.
Me:Well, I wouldn’t want to create an issue for PR. I’ve heard she’s terrifying.
Three dots come up straight away. Addison’s still there. She didn’t just text me and put her phone away. She’s engaged, wanting to talk to me. That means more to me than it should.
Addison:Terrifying, huh? Only when necessary.
I feel like I can hear her giggling miles away.
Me:Honestly though, I don’t want to make things harder for you.
There’s a pause.
Addison:I know. Thank you.
Addison:Wait… what were you saying to Matt earlier? That Cockney thing?
I laugh, fingers tapping away.
Me:Oh, just a bit of rhyming slang to keep him on his toes. Told him I use my head to drown out the noise, if he’d believe it.
Addison:Omg ??
Me:Oh, and I called him a cunt.
Addison:Why?
Me:Because he is one.
Addison:Okay, maybe youdidstart something with Matt. Luckily, he’s too dumb to realize it.
Addison:Goodnight, Ollie.
That name again.
Me:Goodnight, Addie.
I set my phone down and close my eyes.
I’m so fucked.
22
out of position
I CAN SEE YOU BY TAYLOR SWIFT
I hardly know what day it is.
I’m staring at a calendar filled with events and post-it notes, but it might as well be blank.
I’m meeting with the media team to go over the next few weeks of community outreach plans. Sebastian and Carlos are visiting a children’s hospital next week. Brennan is involved with a charity event for veterans. My pen is in my hand, but I’m not writing anything.
My mind isn’t here. It’s on him.
Oliver.
