Page 32 of Use Me

My legs moved again, and I quickly went inside Starbucks and pulled out my phone to text Rhys while I waited in line to order.

Me:Just saw fuck nut.

I loved the nickname Rhys had chosen for Corey. It fit perfectly. It also put a smile on my face as I typed the words and waited for his reply. I didn’t know if he’d reply right away, but I hoped so. I needed the distraction.

I ordered the coffees, and before my name was called, I received a text back.

Rhys: Where?

Me: He was at the light when I walked to get coffee on my break.

Rhys: Did he say anything to you?

Me: No. I kept walking.

Rhys: Where are you now?

Me: Waiting for my coffee.

My phone rang instead of a text. It was Rhys.

“Hey,” I answered.

“You okay?”

“Well, now I know how you felt on the boat.” Though his encounter was worse than mine. I wouldn’t even know what I would do if I came face to face with Corey. Like actually face to face and not twenty or thirty feet between us. I’d probably slap him.

Rhys chuckled in my ear. “Are you saying you want me to meet you for a quickie in the restroom?”

I smiled. If I didn’t have work, I’d take him up on it. Being with Rhys was like a mini getaway from all my worries. I’d say it was like a stress reliever, but it was more. It was as though we were meant to meet that night at Judy’s, meant to be each other’s escape.

“I would, but I have to anchor the news and all that.”

“Tonight after my poker game then.”

“You play poker?”

“Try to every week. Sometimes work gets in the way.”

“With your friends I met the other night?”

“Yep, and two other guys.”

“What time does it end?”

“When it does.” I heard him laugh again.

“So, you want me to sit and wait by the phone for you?”

“Yeah, and naked.”

I snorted my laughter. “Right. Keep dreaming.”

“But seriously, I’ll text you when they leave, and if you’re still awake, I’ll come over.”

“Okay.” I nodded even though he couldn’t see me. The barista called my name, indicating my drinks were ready. I stepped forward. “Can I get a carrier?” I asked the barista. She nodded.

“I’ll call you tonight,” Rhys stated.