AllFreeNovel
Share Us
3 The One
Rob
I smell a set up.Alex looks a little too concerned; Mike seems more depressed than he has in weeks. They make a big show of taking off their snow-covered coats and boots in the entryway, but it’s the flowers and bags in their clutches that really have me on edge.
Alex kneels on the floor in front of Evie. “I know I was a jerk earlier, and that’s not fair. Especially when you’re always doing my laundry and cleaning up in here. So, I went out and grabbed you a little something just to say thanks.”
I can’t see the expression on her face since I’m behind her, but Evie takes the offered fancy heart-shaped box of chocolates and gives Alex a big hug. “Aww, you didn’t have to do that. I’m happy to help you guys get through the season however I can.”
He doesn’t make eye contact with me, but he doesn’t bother to hide the smug smile that slides across his face either.
The asshole.
Mike takes a seat beside Alex, his expression so dejected it almost makes me feel bad for him. Until he opens his mouth. “It was weird not to buy roses for anyone this year, but you’ve always stuck by my side no matter what. You’re the most loyal friend I have, and I don’t show you how much I appreciate you nearly enough. So, these are for you.”
Evie makes this tiny sound of delight in the back of her throat—almost imperceptible—but it assaults my ears nonetheless. She brings the bouquet to her face, brushing the blooms against her cheek as she inhales audibly. “They’re beautiful, and they smell so good! Thank you, big brother.”
Another hug doled out to someone who isn’t me, and I nearly snap.
What is this fresh hell?
I didn’t even get a kiss!
Just when I think I can’t take anymore, they pull out the big guns.
Alex reaches behind his back then thrusts a black velvet box toward my girlfriend.
Oh, no.
Hell, no.
Fuck, no.
“We both chipped in to get you something special. Something just for you from us. So, you’ll always know we’ve got your back, and we’ll always be here for you whenever you need us.”
Evie takes the jewelry box and flips open the lid, letting out a loud gasp. “Oh my God, you guys! This is gorgeous! You shouldn’t have!”
Yeah. They really shouldn’t have.
With her dainty fingers, she picks up what seems like a real gold necklace. From my vantage point, I can’t tell for sure, but it looks like there’s something engraved on a heart-shaped pendant.
My suspicions are confirmed when Mike prompts, “Turn it over and read the back.”
“Stronger together,” Evie whispers, obvious tears choking her voice.
Well, isn’t that special. I think I taste vomit. I definitely roll my eyes, so these usurping bastards can see my reaction to their little “gifts.”
Oblivious to what’s really going on here, Evie wraps her arms around the both of them. “Thank you so much. I…I don’t know what else to say.”
Once she releases them, Mike reaches for her cheek. Probably to wipe away her tears. “You don’t have to say anything. We just wanted to make sure you know we love you.”
Alex nods, really playing up his heartfelt performance. “Anyone who wants to hurt you has to go through us first. You’re stuck with us now, sweetheart.”
I grit my teeth at his pet name.
Evie sniffles a few times then rises to her feet. “I think I have a vase in my room. I’m gonna go put these gorgeous roses in some water. I’ll bring up some extra pillows and blankets, too, so we can all get comfy for movie day.”
I wait until she’s closed the door behind her to face my buddies.
