I scroll through my emails and social media, then lock my phone and take a shower. Today was so weird, and I can’t believe I agreed to go on a date with Aiden. I just hope to God it’s not awkward and no one in Eldorado finds out.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

KNOX

I’ve tried to distract myself all week and not think about Hadleigh, but it’s been useless. She’s consumed my thoughts, and I hate not knowing what’s going on in her head. Kane isn’t saying much to me, and I wonder if he has any clue Hadleigh’s about to break one of our hearts. A part of me wonders if we’ll ever be the same after this. If she picks him, I won’t be able to be near them for a while. I want her to be happy, but I don’t think I can watch her be with someone else. I’m not sure how my brother will react to her decision. Regardless, he’ll still want to be Hadleigh’s friend. I’m not sure if I could.

Every time I think about this, my gut twists, and I’m reminded why I don't do relationships. There are always drama and heartache, and not knowing where the other person stands is too much for me to handle.

No wonder my dad waited fifteen years to tell my mom how he felt. At least I have the good sense not to do it when Hadleigh’s already engaged like he did. After all this time, my parents are happier than ever. I’ve realized recently that I want a relationship like that too. Hell, I never thought I’d say those words, at least not before I was thirty, but here I am.

Since the party’s tonight, I do my daily tasks as fast as I can. Every night after work, I’ve cleaned my house and done laundry so the place is up to Kaitlyn’s specifications. I can’t complain because it’s been a nice distraction.

I confirmed everything with Maize, Kat, and Rowan yesterday. Then Rowan and Kenzie came over last night to help me decorate. They talked shit about me as if I wasn’t there and couldn’t hear them gossiping. Of course, Ethan blabbed about walking in on Hadleigh and me in the shed, and only God knows if Kane heard about it too. If he has, I’m surprised he hasn’t tracked me down and punched me.

Christmas is a couple of weeks away, which means lots of family gatherings, so he’ll eventually have to speak to me. I just hope we can get past this. I miss my brother.