Page 96 of The Singles Club

I got into bed on the other side, and she scooted over closer, stretching her arm over me. Her hand rested against my chest, and I clasped my fingers with hers. I loved feeling her body against my back and the heat of her breath against my neck. This time she was holding me.

I kissed her knuckles and set her hand back down, hugging her closer.

My heart beat a little faster at the thought that I might lose this. I was opening my heart to a woman who was unsure of what she wanted and about to leave for Paris in nine days.

What if she decided this wasn’t for her? Was I mentally prepared for that?

Because the more I opened myself up to Vivian, the more it would hurt if she disappeared from my life for good.

I had to keep my head and emotions in check until we were both all in and ready to commit to a relationship.

20

Dress Crisis

Vivian

Istared up at Justin’s Picasso above the fireplace. A lot more welcoming than oil paintings of boats, ships, and portraits of dead relatives I’d never met. It felt strange to be at his apartment alone, but we decided I should work from home so I could try to get used to feeling like this was my place, too. So far, it wasn’t working. As much as I liked it here, this would always be Justin’s home.

But last night in his arms felt really good. Like I belonged there.

Nine days. Could I figure everything out in nine days? Could we really pull off a long-distance relationship?

I set my computer onto my lap and typed in “success rate of long-distance relationships” into Google.

58%. Huh. Not too bad.

And then, he was willing to visit, and I could fly home.

I opened an article. Three months were the best times, apparently, but the fourth month was trying. If a couple could pass the eight-month milestone, then their chances of making it were much better.

Eight months? Four months was my longest relationship, and that waswithoutthe long distance.

Not so good.

My phone vibrated on the coffee table. A text from Crystal.

C: Are you okay?

V: Yes. Just felt like working from home today.

C: Are you ready to talk about what happened Monday night?

Keeping our temporary relationship a secret from Isabella and Crystal was going to be difficult. But I really wanted to figure this out on my own, at least until Justin and I knew for sure we wanted to go through with it.

V: I already told you. I’m fine.

C: Okay. I know I promised yesterday I wouldn’t push you anymore, but know if you’re ever not fine, you can come to me. No more schemes. ;)

V: Thanks. Same here. :)

C: Iz and I are planning something special Friday night, so make sure you don’t make any plans.

V: You said no more schemes!

C: It’s not a scheme! It’s your last Singles Club meetup, and we wanted it to be a night you’ll remember.

The last one? I’d forgotten my flight was on a Friday. I wasn’t so sure I was ready for a last hoorah. I hated goodbyes, and I was really going to miss Crystal and Isabella.