Page 115 of Hate You Up Close

No strings attached. No feelings, just sex.

We both know that’s a complete lie.

But as much as I wanted to, I couldn't say no. I can’t watch her walk away and into the arms of another man. It’s only a matter of time until I fuck everything up, and I’m scared shitless about how this is all going to end.

But I’m more terrified of losing her, and that’s why I saidyes. I said yes because she’s the only person who’s brought a sense of comfort and peace into my life since I was sixteen years old. And I know that sounds shitty, especially since I was with Skylar for three years, but no one gets me like Roxanne. And I’m not ready to give that up yet.

I woke up this morning with that giddy feeling in my chest, like when you know you’re going to see your crush at school. I shaved, spent extra time on my hair, and wore my best suit.

God, I’m so fucked.

No strings attached, my ass. I’m already drowning in feelings for Roxanne, and my head is miles below the surface.

I arrived to work extra early this morning to avoid an awkward run-in with Roxanne. How do I greet her now that I’m her….boss with benefits?

Hey, wanna fuck tonight? Are you still sore from the weekend? If not, come into my office and sit on my desk.

Yeah, I’m glad I got to the office early. On top of that, I’ve kept my door shut since I got here. Even though I’m good at it, I hate small talk. Especially when it’s with the girl I’m fucking crazy about.

My phone rings, distracting me from my thoughts.

“What now?” I grumble under my breath.

I was hoping to enjoy my coffee in peace before my next meeting starts in five minutes.

My brows pinch together in confusion when I see who’s calling.

It’s my brother, of all people. Everett rarely calls me, mainly because I don’t answer half of the time. He’s tried to have a relationship with me over the years, but I’ve pushed him away like I do everyone else.

I have no desire to answer his call, but something in my gut tells me to pick up the phone. What if something’s wrong? I haven't heard from my parents in a few weeks, which is odd,especially for Mom. She usually calls or texts once a week to check in and make sure I’m doing okay.

I don’t want the anxiety to eat at me all day, so I accept the call.

“Morning,” I answer while bringing the phone to my ear.

“Hey,” Everett replies. “Do you have a minute to talk?”

“Yeah,” I mutter. “I have a couple of minutes before my next meeting. Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, yeah,” he says immediately, calming my nerves. “Everything’s fine. I just…I wanted to call and personally invite you.”

A beat of silence passes through the line.

“Okay…” I trail off. “Invite me to what?”

“Skylar mailed an invitation to your place, but we’re having our wedding shower next month. Mom is throwing it, so you know she’ll be going all out. I know we haven't always been…close. But you’re my brother, and I’d love it if you were there.”

Fuck. I knew this conversation was going to happen at some point. I just didn't plan on having it on a Monday morning before I’ve had my coffee.

The old Elliot would have said no immediately. Not that I’m new and improved or anything, but Everett was in a bad car accident last year that almost killed him. In the blink of an eye, I almost lost my brother. My one and only sibling.

It was a wake-up call for me, realizing how fast a person can be here one second and gone the next. Ever since Everett’s accident, I try to be there when it involves family.

“Oh,” I clear my throat. “I just need to check my schedule. But I’m sure I can make it.”

“It's on a Sunday evening,” he replies. “We figured that would be the best time since most of our guests are working.”

“Oh okay, good,” I exhale. “Yeah, I’ll be there.”