Only Him (Only One 1)

Tyler: Absolutely. Whenever you’re ready. Even if you just want to hit the punching bag, it’s a nice stress reliever.

Gemma: I’d like that. Maybe this weekend when I’m not so exhausted.

Tyler: Sounds like a plan.

Gemma: How was your night?

Tyler: It was good. Nothing special since I didn’t get to hang out with you.

Gemma: Smooth. Haha.

Tyler: Just telling the truth ;)

Gemma: I’m gonna make some dinner, then take a hot bath so I can hopefully fall back asleep.

Tyler: Okay, if you need someone to talk to later, I’ll leave my phone on. Otherwise, sweet dreams.

Gemma: Thank you. See you tomorrow.

Gemma’s going through an emotional time right now. Even though I wish I could hold her, I’m giving her the space she needs to process the breakup with Robert in her own way. But if there’s one thing Icando, it’s letting her know I’m here if she needs me.

This time, I’m not going anywhere and will wait as long as it takes for Gemma to be ready.

CHAPTERTWENTY-SEVEN

GEMMA

I’mglad it’s finally Friday. This week has been a roller coaster of emotions, and I’m ready to have a relaxing weekend. I want to open the windows, enjoy the cold front that’s moving through, and clean my house. Adulting at its finest.

I’m extra excited this morning since Mrs. Wright delivered maple bacon donuts. She only makes them a few months out of the year, and I nearly die when the aroma fills the room.

“I know you love them, so I threw in a few extra.” She winks.

“Dad’s gonna be really happy,” I tell her. “Thank you so much.”

“Welcome, hon. Have a good day.” Mrs. Wright leaves with a smile and a bounce to her step.

When I take one out of the box, I’m surprised it’s still warm. I pour a cup of coffee, then enter the garage.

“Daddy!” I shout.

“Yeah?” he answers, standing by his toolbox. As I walk over to him, his eyes widen in excitement.

“It’s that season again already?” He grins and takes them from my hands. “Thanks, sweetie. You deserve a raise.”

“You should tell that to my boss,” I tease just as Tyler comes through the door with wet hair.

“Good morning,” he says, then quickly gets to work.

“Mornin’,” Dad says around a mouthful.

“Morning,” I mumble softly, studying him. He must’ve worked out this morning because he’s freshly showered. Our eyes meet, and I smile before heading back to the lobby.

It’s insane how much he affects me with just one look.

I try to push the thoughts away and concentrate on my to-do list. As is usual on Fridays, the schedule is jam-packed today.

The morning passes so fast that I’m shocked when lunchtime rolls around. Tyler comes in and hands me a set of keys for a customer’s vehicle. His fingers brush against mine, and I try to hold back a smile.