“Soooo,” Tobias starts, and I groan. He’s about to start a conversation that makes him uncomfortable.
“Why do I get the feeling I won’t like where your mind is going?”
“Because I’m about to ask you about Griffin.”
I blow out a breath.
“It was bound to happen.”
“I just want to make sure you’re really okay.”
“I am. Or I will be. My head isn’t in the best place.” I set the timer on the oven, and then I turn to him. He’s leaning over the sink, washing his hands. “I keep thinking about how I missed the signs.”
“Nat, you can’t think like that.”
“I know. I know. It’s just hard not to. I mean, did I do something wrong? Was I too boring? Was I not enough? It sucks that I’ll never know why he needed someone else. Even if I did know, I’m not sure the answer would help.”
“I don’t imagine it would.”
“And it’s not like I can ask him. If I have it my way, I’ll never see him again, but I also want to get these thoughts out of my head and move on sooner rather than later.”
Tobias is just watching me.
“What? Say something.”
He shrugs. “I don't have much to say. He’s an idiot, and you're perfect. I wish I could tell you that you shouldn't think any part of this was your fault, but it’s easier said than done.”
“It is.”
“But I might have a way to help you with it.”
“Really.” I smirk and cross my arms. “How?”
“By taking you up on your offer to write a book together. I use words as my escape, and although right now they’re also the thing causing all my problems, I think doing this with you could help. Hell, it’s writing and Natalie Miller. My two favorite things.”
I try not to react, but his words cause a frog in my throat. And my eyes are stinging.
Yesterday I was with a boy who would clearly pick anyone but me, and today I’m with a man who wants nothing more than to help me be happy again.
“Do you really mean that?”
He nods.
“You want to write a book with me?”
He nods again.
“Like a good romance with sex and stuff. You’ll have to teach me all the naughty words and everything.”
He lets out a boisterous laugh. “Are you trying to change my mind before we even get started?”
“No. I’m just making sure you know what you’re in for.”
“Oh, I know.”
“We’re close friends, Tobias, but this … this could bring us even closer.”
“I’m well aware.”
