Page 73 of Her Filthy Grump
The wall behind Cole is covered in photos of old movie casts and assorted replica props. “I’m worried I’m not the marriage and family type. My parents weren’t good role models, and she deserves someone who has their shit together.”
Fear flows throughout me at the prospect of her with someone else. “But I can’t stay away from her.” I need her like air. “Is it fair to get married and screw everything up? What if we have kids and I fuck them up like my parents did me?”
“You’re too hard on yourself. You’re a great guy. I don’t know your history, but whatever it was seems to have rocked your confidence. You have a job helping people. You’re a good friend. You love her. What more could she ask for?”
“Is it that simple?” The waitress brings our food as I contemplate what he said. What am I going to do? There’re only a few weeks to get it all straightened out.
“Hell if I know.” Cole laughs. “It’s not like I’m dating anyone. Did you catch the game this weekend?” Cole picks up the enormous sandwich and pieces of lettuce and a blob of ketchup fall to his plate.
“It was a good one. Tony made a spectacular play in the endzone.”
“Fuck yes. He did.” Cole shakes his head. “I can’t believe you’re friends with a pro player and didn’t invite me to the game.”
“Maybe next time.” Will there be a next time? Do I want there to be a next time?
I survey the restaurant. The laidback atmosphere of Meadow Bay has steadily grown on me. I enjoy the quiet nights without sirens. It’s fantastic that the station’s calls aren’t at the same pace as back in K.C. Hell, I even like that there’s only one stoplight.
Could I make this my home? Our home? It’s a great place to raise a family. Gavin is right about that.
Seconds later, my cell phone pings, and I smile.Layla.I drag it out of my pocket, but when I see Roman’s number, my stomach lurches.
Roman: Hey, dude. How’s it hanging? I’ll be back in two weeks. Called it off early. I’m sure you’re ready to get back home. Thanks for watching the place while I was gone.
Fuck.Two weeks. Sweat breaks out on my back. I’ve only got two weeks to get everything figured out and settled.
Chapter Forty-Seven
Layla
One week later
When the alarm goes off, I crack my eyes open and stare at the ceiling. What time is it? I flop over and grab my cell phone from the end table. Six-thirty? How did it get so late?I swipe the alarm off.
“Did your alarm not go off?”
When Kameron doesn’t answer, I twist my head and examine his side of the bed. The covers are pulled up perfectly under his pillow. When did he get up?
“Kameron?” I call out and then listen for sounds from the adjoining bathroom. Nothing. Sadness flows through my body, leaving me feeling deflated and weak. He’s grown distant over the last several days.
Last week everything was great, and then, bam–out of nowhere–he turned broody and pensive. When I ask, he says everything’s fine. Yeah, ri-i-ight. Something’s wrong. Half the time when he’s not working, he disappears.
Last night, he fell asleep before I even got out of the bathroom from showering. I should have gone home. Obviously, we’re at two different places with the definition of ‘I love you.’
I hop out of bed and toss my clothes on as I walk toward his bedroom door. From the living room, I can hear glasses clanking in the kitchen. At least he hasn’t left yet.
Ring. Buzz. Ring.Kameron’s cell phone vibrates across the coffee table. “Kam, your phone’s ringing.”
I step toward his phone and wait for his response. The water blasts against the metal basin as the phone continues to ring.
“Shit.” I snatch it up off the table and twist on my heel.
Kameron rushes toward me. “I’ll get it.”
“Okay.” My heart dives to my feet. I thought we were past the point of him getting upset if I grabbed his phone. Either he doesn’t trust me, or he’s hiding something. Neither scenario makes me feel good.
Our fingers brush as he grabs the phone, swipes the screen, and shoves it into his pocket.He’s hiding something.My stomach cramps.Is he seeing someone else?The urge to crumble to the floor and weep is overwhelming.
“I’ve got to get to work.” He leans forward, places a kiss on my cheek, and heads to the kitchen.