Page 57 of Your Rule to Break
I’m walking from the coffee shop back to my apartment when my phone buzzes.
Zack
have a surprise for you
can I change our planfor tonight?
Me
I like surprises so yes
same time, see you soon
and yes, we’ll still get food
He does it again—answers a question before I have the chance to even ask.
When I’ve been pacing my hallway, unable to sleep, I almost called Zack this week. I know he’d come over, but I also know he’s had a rough practice week. Part of me is afraid to rely on him.
My intrusive thoughts aren’t going away.
I don’t know what Zack’s plan is.
His suggestion of ‘let’s do what feels right’ changes this whole thing and I find I’m more reserved. Like I don’t want to come on too strong, because now it’s for real. Maybe it’s always been real?
Reaching my apartment door, I yawn as I let myself in. I look at the time and have a few hours before Zack will pick me up. I place my iced coffee in the fridge, trying to keep the integrity as much as possible.
I fall onto the couch, grab a blanket, and set an alarm on my phone.
Time for a powernap.
A soft knock wakesme up. I shoot up off the couch, gasping, looking at the time on my phone.
“Emilie… are you in there?” Zack practically croons from outside the door.
I smooth my hair as best I can and open the door.
“Sorry, sorry, sorry. I fell asleep and my alarm didn’t go off.”
Zack laughs, coming in and closing the door behind him. “It’s totally fine. There’s no rush.”
A tiny piece of the panic falls away with his reassurance.
“What do I wear? What’s the vibe?”
Zack rubs his hands together, his forearms flexing, and I need a drink of water. Fuck, this man is so hot.
“Two surprises. Wear something comfortable. Nothing physically active.”
Huh? That’s not really a clue. I change into my favorite pair of black leggings, tank top, and a lilac quarter zip sweatshirt. This is comfortable.
“I want pantsthatcolor.” He points to my quarter zip when I walk out of my bedroom.
He could wear the hell out of this color. No doubt about it.
“I’m so fucking excited! Let’s go, baby.” He reaches for my hand, and we’re out the door.
“Where the hell arewe?” I ask, as we stand outside what looks like a small warehouse. “Should I have told a friend I was going somewhere with you? This gives off a real murdery vibe.” I raise my eyebrows, looking at the building and back to Zack, who is grinning bigger than ever.