21 Days (Time for Love 2)

“Well, the guys already talked to him, and he was going to break it off, but then had a change of heart … Maybe he really does love her,” she replied with a frown. “I’d hate to ruin our friendship for nothing, you know. Maybe it’s time for me to let it go and focus on guys who are actually available.”

“Are you talking about anyone in particular?” I asked when she said that last part.

Gaby shrugged and said, “Well … Brock has asked me out a few times over the years and I’ve always said no … but he asked me again the other day at Shelly’s house and I told him I’d think about it.”

“Really?” I asked, trying to contain my excitement. “Brock is a total beefcake, you should definitely say yes!”

“Really?” she asked, scrunching up her nose at me. “I mean, of course he’s hot … But you think I should say yes?”

“Why the hell not? He’s the epitome of ‘tall, dark, and handsome,’ he owns his own business, he’s single … you’re single … Why wouldn’t you give it a shot. It’s not like you have to marry the guy, just say yes to a date,” I said, hoping to encourage her. “That is, if you’re sure about Scott …”

“I’m sure,” Gaby responded with a determined nod.

“Then, I say you should go for it.”

“You, know what? You’re right. What do I have to lose?”

I pumped my fist in the air, causing Gaby to laugh.

“I haven’t seen that move in a while.”

“TJ and I watched The Breakfast Club last night.”

“Oh, you did? Did he move in already then?”

“Yeah, yesterday,” I replied. “He’s only been there one night, but so far, so good.”

“I’m so glad you’re helping him out, Sasha,” Gaby said as she started to wipe down the counter. “I wish he would have said something, he could have stayed at my place too. I hate that he didn’t feel comfortable asking us.”

“He didn’t ask anyone,” I said with a frown. “You know how TJ is, always willing to help everyone else, but never wants to ask for anything from us. I just hope he’s able to find another job soon, both him and Cal.”

“Yeah, me too,” Gaby agreed.

“Alright, Gabs, I’ve got to head in. Can you just give me an assortment?”

I checked my phone while Gaby put the pastries together for me, and smiled when I saw a reply from TJ.

Perfect! It’s a date, Red. See ya tonight.

“We need to get together this weekend,” I said as I gave her money and took the white box out of her hands.

“That sounds perfect,” she said with a smile.

“Let me know what happens when you tell Brock yes. I want all the deets … Where, when, what you’re gonna wear … Everything!”

“I will. And you let me know how everything’s going with TJ, and if there’s anything I can do.”

“Sounds good.”

I leaned down to give her a light hug as I juggled the box in one hand.

“See you later,” she said, holding the door open so I could walk out.

“Bye, babe,” I said in farewell.

As I walked to my car I thought of TJ’s text, and wondered if I should pick up some dessert for tonight too. TJ had a big sweet tooth. Burgers, salad, cupcakes, and a John Hughes movie. It sounded like the perfect night. I wondered why I’d never thought about having a roommate before. It was kind of nice to have someone to go home to.

Chapter 7 – TJ