closet. Elsie is an open book. She will tell you how it is. Also, tell her that no matter the distance, she’ll mean everything to you if that’s how you feel.”
“She already does.” I swallow.
Addison’s hand drops on my shoulder. “I’m glad we could have this chat. Now, once again… don’t hurt my friend. She’ll probably murder you if you do, so I’m more so protecting you than her, in all honesty.” She chuckles.
After witnessing Elsie’s ax-throwing skills earlier, I think I’d probably be castrated if I didn’t treat her right.
Addison walks out, and I’m left standing there wondering about my next move.
I need to tell Elsie about the lie.
On Sunday, a couple of days after my perfect date with Elsie and the firm talking-to from Addison, I sit on the couch with my laptop open. Pulling up my emails since I’ve been so busy with practice, I haven’t had a chance to check them. When they pop up, I notice a reply from Elsie saying she’d love to help me. I hit reply.
Hi Elsie,
Thanks for offering your services. I understand the assignment. I’ll send it through once it’s done.
Thanks
A
As I hit send, the door flies open, and a rush of voices flow through, and my heart speeds up at the sound of one particular person. Elsie.
“Get ready, Aiden. We’re heading to the beach today,” Parker announces as he walks through and goes straight to his room. Addison heads to the kitchen already dressed in her beachwear. I wait, and that’s when I spot her. Elsie steps around the corner ever so slowly with a beaming smile on her face. My lips pull up instantly because she has that kind of effect on me.
“Hey,” she greets. Elsie stands there in a short sky-blue dress, and I itch to touch her and press my lips to hers. The urgency overtakes me.
“Hey there.” I stand with my laptop. I take her hand in mine and lead her down to my room so I can grab what I need, but also so I can taste her again.
She walks with me.
I hear her giggle as we step into my room, and I kick my door shut then push her against it. “I’ve missed these lips,” I say through a passionate kiss.
“Is that all you’ve missed?” I hear her teasing tone.
I pull back. “Of course not. These lips are connected to the perfect girl. She’s who I truly miss.”
Elsie’s mouth turns up on one side, and her cheeks go pink. “You’re a smooth talker, Aussie guy.” She nods as if agreeing with herself, and it’s so cute. “The only thing you need to learn is to keep in contact with the person you actually have feelings for.”
My brow knits together. “I’m sorry?”
Her hand touches my face. “When you see me, make sure to tell me how you feel, and you’re happy to kiss these lips you’ve missed so much, but what about a random message now and again to see how my day is going? You do have my number.”
Damn it. “I seriously suck at the text messaging thing. I know every teenager loves their phone, but I’m one of those who rarely checks it or posts on their social media.” I pause and pull her against my chest. Her shining eyes beam up at me. “I will try harder. Promise.” And then I seal the promise with another kiss.
“You better get ready, or your door is going to get knocked down by one of the guys.” I reluctantly release my hold on her, knowing she’s right.
“If you say so. Off ya go so I can get changed—unless you wanna get a sneak peek.” I waggle my eyebrows teasingly. I watch as she bites her bottom lip then turns and walks out.
Damn.
It was so tempting to stay. I’m not that girl, though, even if the guy is offering. I’ve learned my lesson to make them work for all the girly goods I have to offer. It’s not going to change with the Australian guy, even if he has a heart-stopping accent and perfect lips.
Walking down the hall, staring at my feet, I can’t wipe this stupid smile from my face.
“What are you doing, little miss?”
My head flicks up when I jump, noticing Addison standing in Parker’s bedroom doorway.
“Damn, you scared the life out of me.” My hand rests over my startled heart.
“You were too busy dreaming about Mr. Aussie Guy in the next room. Don’t think I missed him snatching you out of the room