Page 84 of Cuts like a Knife
I got maybe two hours of rest. The truth is, with Drew in bed beside me, and my mind racing with ideas for stories, questions about if I should write about Maylee, and the lurking threat of the SpyMaster email, I was way too wound up to truly sleep.
The muscles in my neck and back are so tight, I feel like I’ve had a headache for a week.
Drew is asleep next to me, dead to the world, like a little boy. His dark hair is falling alluringly over his forehead, but I don’t feel the slightest urge to smooth it away. The man is sexy as hell. He’s the furthest thing from a little boy that I can imagine, so what, exactly, is my problem?
Is he right? Have I been jerking him around? I haven’t meant to. It’s just … the whole feels impossible.
True to his word, he didn’t make a move on me last night. In fact, by the time I slipped into bed beside him, he was already asleep. No stuffed-animal-barrier required.
I pull my bag into bed and rummage around for some painkillers. I always have plenty267. I pop two naproxen tablets and swallow them dry.
I need a break.
I’m going to create one.
I shoot off a text to Callum, feeling grateful for the early hour. He’ll be sleeping. Won’t be able to immediately call me back to cuss me out.
Lex: We’re not special enough to warrant access to one of the official “dates” but I’ve managed to secure a private day with a lesser member of the cast. I think there’s enough here for some good content. Maybe a profile. I’ll be gone all day and won’t have service, though. See you tonight at the cruise.
There. That should buy me some time. Callum doesn’t have to know I’m not really working. Besides, I sort of am. Maylee seems like an open book. There is plenty of content here, if I can figure out how to spin it.
Unfortunately, I miscalculated because Callum is awake. His reply comes in before I can put down my phone.
Callum: Speak for yourself, Madison. I’m going to the grotto with people who matter268.
Callum: Who are you with?
I don’t want to tell him. I’m not even sure I want to write about Maylee. Not yet.
Lex: Will let you know if I get something.
Callum: You better get something if you’re spending an entire day with whoever it is.
Lex: Losing service now. Bye.
Not true, but I’ve been here just days and have already produced an obscene amount of content. Callum can bite me.
“F— you, CJ,” I whisper at my phone.
“Who are you so mad at?”
Dammit. Drew’s awake and propped up on one elbow, watching me, a smile in his eyes.
“Nobody. Everybody. Mind your own business. So listen, I’ve got a day tripped booked today. With Maylee Wise. You’re invited.”
“Great,” he’s already out of bed and walking toward the bathroom. “Where to?”
“I don’t actually know. One second.”
While Drew gets himself together, I respond to Maylee.
Lex: Sorry. Am at a private cottage. There was a f— up with the hotel when I arrived.
Maylee: We’ll come pick you up. It’s best to get an early start. Address?
Lex: One sec. But where are we going? What do we wear/bring/etc.?
Maylee: Secret beach, far side of Stocking Island. Trust me, you’ll love it. Wear a bathing suit. Clothes on top. Bring a towel. A backpack would be good if you have one. Everything else’s taken care of.
