AllFreeNovel
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That’s not on Harlow.
I’m changing the code in my elevator the moment she leaves though.
Enough is enough.
“Great.” I drop my bag, and she races across the room to hug me.
“Congrats sweetheart. You won!”
My chest tightens.
“Harlow...” I close my eyes and push her gently away.
She crumples in front me. “I know.”
I shake my head and lead her over to the sofa.
“Harlow, you are a gorgeous young woman.” I start sounding like an old man. She’s a year younger than me. “Don’t waste your time on me.”
“I still love you.” She glances away.
I hold her hand, rubbing the skin gently.
“I care about you. I wish I felt the same way.”
“I know.” She sighs and takes her hand back. “I keep hoping but it’s not going to change, is it?”
I shake my head.
Then I do something I hadn’t planned and thought I wouldn’t do. But I feel like it could help to create a solid boundary.
Even if it hurts her a little more.
Sometimes that has to happen to move on completely. Me not doing it is keeping Harlow stuck and that’s not doing her any favors.
“I’ve met someone.”
She blanches.
“Oh.”
“Her name is Molly.” I say, keeping my voice even. I have nothing to feel guilty about.
“Molly,” she repeats, and nods as if accepting it. “Molly. Is she nice?”
“Yes. But she’s been really hurt by a man and I’m not sure she’s going to let me in.”
I don’t know why I’m saying this but it’s nearly like Harlow is the only person I can share it with.
Oddly.
“That’s sad.” Harlow nods.
We sit in silence for a moment until I shake my head. “Fuck I’m sorry Harlow. That was wrong of me to tell you. I should go unpack.”
“No. I’m glad you did. I want to be your friend. Atlas, I care about you. And...do you love Molly?”
Man, one day this girl is going to get snapped up by some guy and he better be amazing.
