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I’m shocked that the man who gets shocked in the head for a living has a lot of thoughtful points about love and romance.
Maybe that’s what Adelaide likes so much about him. He’s got a head for romance and love. I wasn’t ever able to do that for her. I was so concerned with Wired Reality and everything my company needed. Past the honeymoon stage, I think I took her for granted as someone who would always be there. Then she wasn’t.
I think if I got another chancenow,I’d be a great boyfriend.
Perhaps not for Adelaide. Maybe… someone else.
Not naming names, though.
“Well, you guys have seen us together. What do you think we’re missing?” I ask somewhat genuinely.
“I wasn’t sure you two had chemistry until you were dancing the other night,” Will says.
“Oh, you’d have to be a ninny not to see that chemistry,” Simon tsks. “I saw it well before then.”
Theo takes a swig of his beer and looks up into the hot Mediterranean sun as if he’s a philosopher about to bestow the biggest kernel of wisdom ever bestowed. “I think you respect her too much.”
I gape. “I’m sorry?”
“That sounded bad, Tee,” Franklin whispers.
“Let me explain, alright, don’t get your jockstrap in a bunch,” Theo replies, spreading his arms out to take the floor. “What I mean to say is you’ve spent a lot of time being her friend –”
Friend might be a stretch.
“And now, you’re concerned you’re going to hurt her. You’re not willing to take risks. Tell me if that feels familiar.”
I nod slowly. “Yeah. You’re right.”
“So, you gotta take some risks!” Theo exclaims and slaps my thigh.
I have to say, Theo’s a good guy. I’ve always made him a villain in my head. But to allow your fiancé’s ex to come to your engagement party and to treat him like a friend… that takes a lot of courage I don’t think I have.
“Show her how you really feel about her. Unbutton one more button on your shirt and show her what kind of man you are.”
I can’t believe he’s starting to make sense. Fuck this dancing around each other, too afraid to talk.
I want Stella. And I need her to know that.
“Go on. Do it,” Theo encourages.
I look down at my shirt and carefully unbutton the next button. It’s a bit exposing for me; I’ve always ascribed this look to seventies rock stars and flamboyant guys visiting Fire Island.
The guys all hoot and holler. “There ya go, Madden!” Simon gleefully shouts, slapping me on the back.
Suddenly, the boat lurches backward and Gregory shouts, “Guys! A little help!” He’s struggling to reel in a fish, the rod bending further and further toward the water.
“Alright, guys,” Theo announces, leaping up. “Let’s do this.”
The other guys all run to help Gregory. I’d just get in the way so I stay put.
Besides, I’ve got to prepare to show Stella what kind of man I really am.
Chapter 10
Stella
Ihavebeenstaringout at the water, desperate to see the tender on the horizon. I might not be speaking to Flynn at this moment in time, but he’s the only thing I have out here. My only source of comfort.
