Chapter Twenty-Three

Andrew

I call Finn back the following morning, partly because it was late by the time I made it back to my apartment, but mostly because as soon as I got home, I went into the shower and rubbed one out thinking of Kenzie and the way she tasted and felt and looked earlier that night.

It’s official—I’m a goner.

I’m a total simp for this woman. At this point, I’d probably enter a gingerbread-house-making competition and dress up as Santa if she asked me to.

The days at work used to fly by and I wouldn’t give a second thought to staying at the office until seven or eight o’clock. Now though, the minutes drag by because I’m counting down until I can see Kenzie again. It’s as if time stands still when I’m at my desk.

Still, I’m trying my best to save that last little piece of me for myself. I’ve only once given another woman everything and look what happened there. I still don’t quite understand it.

And tonight, I have to wait even longer to see Kenzie because I’m meeting Finn after work. Something I would normally look forward to, but tonight, not so much, considering I was fingers deep in his sister the night before and he’s none the wiser.

I understand why Kenzie wants to keep our relationship between us for the time being. Her relationship with her family is complicated, and relationships, as a rule, are messy. I’m not sure what Finn’s reaction will be if/when he finds out, but there’s no sense in risking either of our relationships with him until we know we stand a chance of being together.

I leave work on time and meet him at the usual place. I find him at our usual table and see that he’s ordered my usual drink.

Jesus, are we that predictable?

“How’s it going?” I take the seat across from him, pick up my glass, and take a sip of my drink, hoping it will calm some of my nerves.

It’s not until I take a seat that I wonder if perhaps Finn knows something about Kenzie and me. Why else would he say he has to talk to me about something and ask to meet up as soon as possible?

“Good, man. You?” He arches an eyebrow. Is it just me or does it seem like he’s looking at me funny?

I clear my throat and set down my glass. “The usual. So… what’s this all about? Why did you want to meet? Don’t leave me in suspense.” My smile feels strained and I hope Finn doesn’t notice.

“Cutting right to the chase, huh?” He eyes me for an uncomfortably long moment and all my muscles grow tense. “I want you to be my best man.”