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The way she stresses the word only makes my fists curl. I’ve been waiting for her to push me away since our kiss. I knew she’d be freaked out. She wants me to stay within the boundaries she set for us from the beginning. Lizzy thrives on being in control of everything.
“Of course,” I grit out. “What in the hell did she say to make you think otherwise?”
“Nothing. It’s just…I mean…” She takes a deep breath before letting out a long sigh. “I want to be sure I’m not sending any signals to suggest anything other than friendship is an option, because it’s not. And it never will be. I think it’s important we keep all the lines drawn. I don’t want anyone getting hurt.”
Her little speech isn’t all that surprising, but it still stings a little. I know she feels the connection between us. It’s been there from the beginning. She’s so damn willing and eager to dismiss this though, and it makes me want to scream.
My jaw starts working back and forth, my jumbled thoughts failing to come up with a response. I should kiss her senseless then ask her to repeat herself. If I hadn’t made that damn promise, that’s exactly what I’d do right now.
“Tell you what, buddy,” I sneer, slamming my elbows on the table before leaning toward her, “would it make you feel better if I find some beautiful woman to take home for a good fuck tonight?”
Her face sours at my words, but she quickly recovers, smoothing her features.
“Is that what you want me to do?” I ask her.
“If that’s what you want to do, you certainly shouldn’t let me stand in the way.” Her shoulders square as she tugs her cardigan tightly around her body.
My chest burns from all the emotion I’m trying to keep bottled inside, the lump in my throat continuing to grow. I don’t play games, never have. I’ve always believed in being straightforward with people. But I’ve got a point to prove. She’s calling my bluff and challenging me when all I want is for her to see how full of crap she is.
“All right then.” I scan the room for some poor woman to use as a pawn in my game. My gaze lands on a blonde two tables over who’s already eye-fucking me. My stomach churns as she smiles at me seductively. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to get to it.”
I can’t bring myself to look at Lizzy again as I leave the table, knowing my resolve will crumble.
The blonde laughs and whispers with her friends as I make my way over, pulling at her low-cut top to reveal more cleavage. Bile rises in my throat as I reach her table, everything in me wanting to run back to Lizzy.
“Ladies.” I tip my head, forcing my lips into a small smile.
All three women say hello, giggling in a way that makes my skin crawl with irritation.
“Would you like to dance?” I ask, focusing on the blonde.
She nods as she stands, smirking at her friends in triumph. I place my hand on her lower back and lead her to the floor, being sure to position us where Lizzy will get a good view. My hands land on her hips and pull her into my body, allowing her hands to roam freely as we move to the music.
I finally work up the nerve to glance at Lizzy. Her beer is tipped up, her throat moving quickly as she chugs it, and guilt consumes me. She only came because I asked her to, and I’m being an asshole. All because my feelings and pride were hurt.
“So, what’s your name?” the blonde asks, prying my attention from Lizzy and back to her.
“Does it really fucking matter?” I retort, a sharp bite in my tone as I press my body harder into hers.
She shrugs, her mouth twisting, hands roaming again.
I clench my jaw and look back over to Lizzy, but she isn’t there. My pulse races as I search the bar for any sign of her. Pushing the woman away from me, I rush back over to the table where I left Lizzy as Jon and Allison walk up.
“Did you see her?” My voice is frantic as I turn circles in search of her.
“I saw her heading for the door,” Allison replies without meeting my eyes.
“What?” Ice runs through my veins as I reach in my pocket and pull out my phone to call her. But there are already messages waiting for me.
Lizzy:Not feeling well. Taking an Uber home.
Enjoy the rest of your night.
Happy Birthday.
“She left,” I roar, taking a step toward Allison, my chest heaving. “What the fuck did you say to her?”
Allison cowers away from me as Jon steps in between us, placing a hand on my chest to keep me back.
“Back off, Bren. She was only trying to look out for you,” he says.
“Yeah.” I push his hand away and distance myself from them. “Thanks a fucking lot.”
They call after me as I head for the door, calling Lizzy on my way out.
