Page 58 of Never Been Matched
There is at least ten feet of space between us, plus a desk and my chair, and yet all I can think about is swallowing that distance and then kissing her again.
And again.
With no interruptions this time.
I could brush the papers off my desk and lay her down on it, remove all her clothes and then?—
She pushes to her feet. “I have to go check on Audrey, she was . . . upset earlier.”
I nod.
She pauses in the doorway, turning back to meet my eyes over her shoulder. “Hey, don’t work too late. Sleep is important too.” Then she disappears.
A few seconds later, the stairs creak. I wait another minute, focusing on breathing in and out.
Like the force of my exhale will somehow expel her from my mind.
It doesn’t work. She might be the only person in this town, other than Carter, who is constantly reminding me to take care of myself.
I sit down and read the letter again.
* * *
Spencer,
* * *
Vivien should have given you a ticket to a showing this weekend at The Palace. In order to ensure the next task has been completed, your job is to observe her at the theater and ensure that she sits next to Graham Deadwyler for the entire length of the movie.
Of course, we can allow time for bathroom breaks, or if they sneak off together, I suppose that’s fine—fits the spirit of what we are trying to accomplish, which I am sure you have guessed at this point if Vivien hasn’t divulged all the details.
If she has, I hope they are juicy.
I hope it’s been exciting. I hope people are talking and gossiping.
* * *
If only she knew. It’s literally all anyone can talk about.
* * *
You can give Vivien the next letter once you have confirmed completion of the next task.
Take care of my girl.
* * *
Beverly
* * *
Guilt grips me by the throat. Can I be trusted to take care of her girl? If only Beverly knew what I was thinking when I was around her.
Who am I kidding? She would find all of this exciting. Like one of her movies. She lived for drama and romance, real or imagined.
I’m the caricature of a small-town attorney, constantly running myself ragged taking care of everyone. Vivien comes to town, a movie star, beautiful and brilliant, unable to find the place she belongs. All we’re missing is a Christmas tree farm, maybe an apple orchard, and a broody lumberjack to complete the love triangle. Oh, wait, we do have a broody writer character for that.
Beverly really is a mastermind.
