Page 27 of Counting the Stars
“Ah, that’s a great area.” Josh sits back in his chair. “I went to a conference in Sedona a few years back and stayed a week longer to explore. Red Rock State Park was captivating and the weather was fantastic. I’m surprised you’d want to leave.”
“It’s a gorgeous place,” I agree. My parents couldn’t afford to take us on big vacations like some of my classmates. While my peers recounted stories of summers spent at Disney or on a cruise, we stayed within driving distance of our apartment. I never minded or felt like I was missing out. Arizona has plenty to explore, and my family always had a blast on our road trips. It’s probably why I was so quick to accept Alex’s offer when he asked me to take the ride with him.
“What brought you here? A significant other, perhaps?” His eyes home in on my left hand, presumably looking for a ring.
“Oh no. Nothing like that. I just…needed a change.” I grab my fork and start picking at my salad, then subtly change the subject. “You mentioned you traveled. Tell me about where else you’ve gone.”
Josh takes the bait and excitedly tells me about the places he’s seen, people he’s met, and food he’s tried. I half listen, trying to keep my focus on my company in front of me and not out the window. From the angle I’m sitting, I can see Alex perfectly, but he can’t see me. I kind of like this advantage.
The guys from the station gather up their lunch, and I’m disappointed that they’re leaving so soon. Alex stands and tosses his drink into a trash can like he’s sinking a basketball into a net. He does a small celebration dance when the can hits its intended target. I try to pull my eyes away, but then he lifts the hem of his shirt and uses it to wipe some sweat above his brow. I see him with less clothes on all the time, but it’s a view I don’t think I’ll ever tire of. His defined abs make a perfect “V” that leads straight to his—
“Are you free Saturday night?” Josh asks.
I snap my gaze from the window so fast, I feel like I’ve given myself a minor case of whiplash.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t hear you.” I flush, thinking I’ve been caught ogling my neighbor, but Josh seems completely oblivious.
“I asked if you were free Saturday night.” He gives a pleasant smile. “I’d love to take you out to dinner.”
“Oh, umm.” I chew on my lower lip.
“I’m sorry.” Josh’s face falters. “Is there someone else?”
“Oh no,” I stammer and wave my hand around nonchalantly. “Nothing like that.” My immediate reaction is to turn him down. I’ve never had trouble turning down other offers in the past. But an idea pops in my head. If I go on a date with Josh, maybe Alex will move on from me and findsomeone else. Someone he deserves. Someone who’s not broken and who’s capable of loving him with their whole heart. My stomach sinks thinking of what I’m about to do, but I’m doing this for him.
Josh watches me with bated breath.
“I’m actually working Saturday night.” I fidget with my napkin. “But I’m free on Friday.”
Josh’s hazel eyes light up at my response. He pulls out his phone and taps it a few times. “I have a late meeting on Friday, but if you don’t mind, I can leave from there and meet you somewhere. Have you ever eaten at The Lighthouse?”
“No, but I’ve heard good things about it.” I know it’s slightly more upscale than The Local, which is my friends’ usual go-to. And though I love the food there, it might be nice to try something different. Maybe this will turn out okay after all.
“Perfect!” Josh says gleefully. “Want to meet there at seven?”
“Sure. That will work.” I force a smile, convincing myself this is for the best.
“Then it’s a date!” Josh winks.
We say our goodbyes. I throw out my barely touched lunch and head back to my department. My stomach feels like I’m on the downside of a roller coaster and there’s no end in sight. I try to convince myself that I’m doing the best thing for my heart. The best thing for me, so I don’t have to go through that pain of losing someone again. But the pain I’m feeling now, with the potential of hurting Alex all for the purpose of getting him to move on and find someone else, completely destroys me.
If I’m being truthful with myself, I’m not sure whether I hope this will work or not.
15
Alex
“Looking a little formal for some lasagna, baby girl, not that I mind, of course.” I give Gabby an appreciative once-over as she steps out of her bedroom wearing a little black dress. It’s certainly a different sight from her regular attire of scrubs or the leggings and oversized sweatshirts she wears on her days off.
“I’m not having dinner here tonight. I’m going out,” she says, looking a little distracted.
“I found the necklace!” Aly barrels through the door. “This will look perfect with that dress!”
“Wait! Where are you going?” I stand from the couch, irritated. It was my understanding that everyone was off tonight and we’d all have dinner together. Michelle sent a group text a few days ago to make sure she had enough food for all of us.
“I told you. I’m going out.” She turns her attention toward Aly and takes the necklace. “Thank you. It’s beautiful. Are you sure you don’t mind?”
“Not at all!” Aly smiles. “I’m not going anywhere fancy, and it’s the perfect length to go with that neckline.”