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Was it always so obvious? That he had feelings for me?

Yeah. It was always obvious.

Oh.

I decide to change the subject.

How are you and Micha?

Honestly?

Always.

I think I’m going to break up with him.

The knots inside my belly twist a little tighter at that.

Why?

I think I’m holding him back.

What are you talking about?

Can we get together? I need my friend.

God, I understand that.

Of course. When?

Do you work tomorrow?

Sadly, yes.

I’ll bring goodies from Cherry’s.

See you tomorrow.

I toss my phone to my bed. It lands at the foot as a flutter of panic roots itself in the center of my chest at the thought of joining Tate in the living room. Because—I’m ready to start moving forward. I’m ready to start building truth around the lie that is us.

I’m ready to start feeling hopeful again.

The television clicks off and my eyes flutter open to a blank screen and silence. There’s no light in the apartment save for the twinkling lights strung around the tree.

“Wh—”

Tate pushes off the couch. “Time for bed.”

“But I was watching that.”

Amusement threatens to curl his lips. “What exactly were you watching?” He folds his arms over his chest. “I’ll wait.”

I frown, looking anywhere but at the muscles of his arms crossed over his t-shirt-covered chest. “I’m not tired.”

“Says the woman who spent the last twenty minutes snoring in my ear.”

My mouth drops as horror spills into my cheeks. I chuck the couch pillow at him, disappointed when he dodges it easily with a laugh.

“I do not snore.”