Page 141 of Let Me Keep You

Moments later, I hear the sounds of water running and imagine Tyler naked in the shower. The girls chat as they watch Julia Roberts wear the smallest miniskirt ever, but my mind wanders elsewhere.

Halfway through the movie, my phone vibrates in my pocket. I suck in my lower lip to hide the goofy smile on my face when I see Tyler’s name on the screen, but it’s helpless.

Tyler

You look really pretty tonight.

I blush at his words and wish I could talk to him in person, but I promised Everleigh and Katie I’d hang out with them tonight. Plus, I never wanted to be that girl who ditched her friends for a guy. Though I have a feeling they’d understand.

Gemma

You’re too sweet. Sorry we stole your friend. Do you want some company?

Tyler

I mean it. Nah, that’s okay. I don’t want to steal you from them, even if my sister is being obnoxious and loud.

Gemma

She was drinking before I even got here. Katie too.

Tyler

I overheard Everleigh and Katie talking the other day about Noah. I think Katie’s getting anxious about it.

Noah has over a year left in prison, but I think Tyler being back has made her think about him more. I imagine she’s wondering how she’ll face him when he comes home.

Gemma

Maybe after a few more drinks, I can get her to spill the tea.

I laugh at the GIF of a woman sipping tea and hit send.

Tyler

Haha. Isn’t that what girls’ nights are for? Just make sure to talk slow and loud so I can eavesdrop.

Gemma

Ha!

Not wanting to be rude, I put my phone away. I’m half-listening to them chat as my mind circles back to Tyler. Could we actually work as a couple and be happy again? My heart says yes, but my head is skeptical. The chemistry between us is as strong as ever, but I’m still scared he’ll leave again.

And if that happens, I won’t be able to survive it twice.

CHAPTER THIRTY

TYLER

It’s been a week since Victoria showed her ugly face. Robert acted like he had no idea who she was, but I don’t buy it. The guy’s a sleazy motherfucker, and even if he’s being truthful, Victoria’s vindictive. I called Eric to tell him, and he was just as shocked as I was when I saw her. He believes she’s up to something and might be planning to retaliate for partaking in the deposition. If she knows what’s good for her, she’ll take her shady ass back to Vegas where she belongs.

The garage has been busy, but I have no complaints. Now that Gemma doesn’t avoid me anymore, I look forward to arriving early and staying late. She and Everleigh hung out a few nights ago, but this time, they let me crash their girls’ night. I didn’t even care that they made me watch Hocus Pocus because I got to be near Gemma.

I don’t have to work at the gym today and just want to spend my Saturday with Gemma. After I drink a cup of coffee, I work up the courage to text her.

Tyler

Do you have plans tonight?