AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I close the cap on my nail polish. “No, I’ve got plenty of security and people around. Plus, I know you can’t leave your shop right now.”
“You’re right… that’s why I’m sending Ben.”
I freeze. “He’s coming here?”
“Don’t act so disappointed,” she chides. “Ben loves you. He’s one of your best friends.”
“I’m not disappointed, I just—I’m tired, is all. I had plans to eat pizza in bed and take a long bubble bath.”
“Ben would be happy to eat pizza in bed with you, just keep your hands to yourself,” she giggles.
The corners of my lips turn up. Ben and Wren go together like cheese and pizza. Not only do their names rhyme, which is kind of sickening in a cute way, the two of them just get each other. The fact they aren’t dating, or so they say, is just crazy to me. But everyone has their own path, so who am I to judge?
Whatever makes Wren happy, makes me happy, and same goes for Ben. After Liam and I stopped being friends, I was very thankful for Wren’s continued friendship. She never stopped hanging out with me, even when everything went to shit. And since Wren continues to be my friend, so did Ben. They’re a package deal. And I do like Ben, he’s a good guy through and through.
I bite my lip. “Did you tell him where I’m staying?”
“He knows you’re near Times Square, but I didn’t tell him where. He’s expecting your call.”
“Okay, I’ll text him. But I can’t promise I’ll be good company.”
“Just be you, B. That’s all you ever need to be around us.”
I lean back against the plush red couch in my presidential suite, praying to whatever gods are out there to give me strength. “Thanks, Wren. I’ll text you later.”
“Send me a picture to show evidence of the meetup. Otherwise, I won’t believe you.”
I snort. “Okay.”
“Bye, B. Cheer up.”
“Bye.”
I take a moment to collect myself before opening up a blank text to Ben. Even though I’m bone tired and jumpy, I do have to admit I’m a little happy I’ll get to see a familiar face. The last time I saw Ben… gosh, it had to have been a year ago at Wren’s sister’s wedding. Sure, we text, but that is never the same.
ME:Ben, I hear Wren’s been meddling in my business. ;)
BEN:Well, well, well! It’s my famous rock star friend! I thought I’d lost you to the world of glamour and fame.
ME:HA-HA. Want to come indulge in some fancy room service pizza with me?
BEN:Now you’re talking in my language. But screw room service pizza, I’ll bring you the real NYC stuff.
ME:Deal. When can you be here?
BEN:4 work?
ME:Perfect. I’m going to have my tour manager Eric contact you, ok? With everything going on we need to be careful.
BEN:Totally get that! I’ll wait for his call.
I say goodbye to Ben and then let Eric know I’ll have company. I’m grateful Ben isn’t coming for a few hours; it gives me time to take a bath and maybe even get in a nap. Now that sounds like heaven.
“HOLY SHIT!” Ben laughs gleefully as he gives me a giant one-armed bear hug, his other arm balancing a huge pizza box. I’m pretty sure his hugs are the definition of a bear hug. They are all encompassing and warm. He’s definitely an A++ hugger.
“Ben Wright, you are a sight for sore eyes.”
“Birdie girl! I see your mug all over the place, but it’s nice to see you in the flesh. You look good. Tired, but good.”
