Page 22 of Things I Overshared

Then there’s one message that takes my breath away. “You are a human bulb, lighting up this whole office just by being you!!” I copy and paste it to Nicole immediately.

Me: That isn’t from you, is it?

Nicole: No, mine said you are the best bestie.

Oh, right, duh.

It’s just so nice, I can’t imagine who it’s from, if not you or Darrin.

I know exactly who it’s from.

?????

Chase

The accounting guy?

Yes, he is always staring at you.

He’s cute! You should ask him out!

[Thinking emoji]

Hannah tells us great job, and I make my way over to her to say thanks and help pack up her gear. I make sure not to look anywhere near Emerson’s direction. I’m sure he is unaffected by my message. I almost think I should’ve gone with something meaner.It doesn’t suit you . . .My blood boils anew remembering.

After walking Hannah out, I linger at Nicole’s desk.

“Hey,” I whisper.

“Why are you whispering?” she asks, not looking up from her screen where she’s typing something with comic-book superhero speed.

“I don’t think that was sent by a guy.” I lean in closer but raise my voice slightly. “There were two exclamation marks. What guy do you know who would do that? Definitely not an IT guy.”

She pauses typing to consider what I’ve said. “Yeah, I bet you’re right, but just in case, you should still ask Chase out.”

“I’m off men. I’ve told you this.”

“But think about it: he knows you already, works within the company, and you’d be approaching him, not the other way around.”

“Hmmmm, I will think about it.” I stare off for a moment, then look down at my dear friend. “How about you? I bet your email was glowing with praise, right?”

“They were all really nice, and then there was Emerson’s message: ‘You are extremely efficient and proficient.’”

I chuckle. “Yeah, mine said, ‘You are nice to a fault.’ Which definitely feels like an insult.”

She laughs too. “I’ll call you later.” I give a small wave as I head back to my office the long way. I don’t want to look at the man in the corner office’s stupid, handsome, cruel face ever again.

Chapter 6

THURSDAY 6:02a.m.

Meeting Invitation From: Margaret Wayne

8:45a.m.Emerson Clark and Samantha Canton

Re: Trip Itinerary

“Ohhhh it is on like Donkey Kong!” I mutter out loud as I click Accept at the bottom of the email.He’sinvitingmeto meet?! I practically jump out of bed, immediately done scrolling through Instagram dog accounts. Each one tugs at my heart, begging me to choose their breed and buy a puppy as soon as humanly possible. I remind myself that after Europe, I’ll find a new roommate, a new apartment that allows dogs, and a new furry best friend.