Page 76 of Reckless Love

“I don’t remember them. I just remember hating that we got interrupted.”

“I love that you’re successful doing what you love. It’s just hard when our time together is short, and every time, there are girls hanging off of you nonstop.”

“There are not girls hanging on me nonstop.” Myfeet swung to the floor and I leaned my elbows on my knees, trying to calm down.

“Feels like it,” she snapped.

“How would you know? You’ve had a guy hanging on you from the time we met.” I ran my hand down my face.

Fuck. Why was I picking a fight?

She gasped. “I’m trying to do better at not jumping into a relationship just because I’ve had a few dates with someone.” She started crying harder. “But you really can’t talk, Rhodes. At least I try to let people in…reallyin.”

“I let people in. You’re about as farinas anyone can go. Who’s the new guy? Does he have a problem with me too? Because all your boyfriends do. Is he why you don’t call me as much anymore?”

The phone jostled and I saw her face. She looked livid and her face was streaked with tears. I felt awful knowing I was causing this.

“I don’t call you as much anymore because you don’t answer half the time. Do I have to remind you that you flaked out onmetonight? Not the other way around.”

For a second we just stared at each other, both breathing hard and hurt.

“I’m sorry, Elle. I miss you. I never want to flake on you. I’ll do better.”

She wiped her face and nodded. “We’re pulling up to my place. I’m gonna go.”

“Talk to me until you get in the door, so I can know you got in safe?”

“I’m a big girl and doing this most of the time without your supervision.” Her mouth quirked up slightly to soften her words.

I nodded. “I know. I’m?—”

“Bye, Rhodes. I’ll talk to you soon.”

She hung up and I fell back, pounding my fist on the bed. She texted a few minutes later.

Elle

Inside, safe and sound.

Thanks for letting me know.

Elle

I sent her one back and then grabbed my laptop and checked flights. I wouldn’t have much time, but if I could spend a day with her…Ineededa day with her.

I forgot to ask what you were up to this weekend.

It took a second and I wondered if she’d already fallen asleep, but then my phone buzzed and I grabbed it like a man getting his next fix.

Elle

It’s a low-key weekend. The most exciting plan I have is to go to the bookstore across the street and get some new books. What about you?

The most exciting plan I had was surprising her.

Surprisingly chill for me too. Maybe I’ll crack open a book too.

Elle