Page 94 of Clinically Awkward

“That was before I realized he was simply emotionally stunted and in need of male friendship,” Fitz said. “Now I feel rather bad for him.”

Colton was typing on his phone. “What’s your number?”

And Fitz—God help us all—actually gave it to him.

“Brilliant,” Colton said, typing rapidly. “I’ll text you the address. Seven o’clock work?”

“I—yes?” Fitz said, looking as if he wasn’t entirely sure how this had happened.

“Great!” Colton slapped him on the back. “This is going to be awesome. We can talk about women and workouts and—oh, you’re a doctor, right? Maybe you can tell me if I’m overtraining my delts.”

“I’m an OBGYN,” Fitz said. “I don’t really⁠—”

“Perfect! You can give me advice about understanding women better. Vivian’s been kind of weird lately.”

Vivian made a sound like a dying animal.

“Right,” Colton said, finally turning to her. “Sorry, babe. What did you want to talk about?”

Vivian stared at him.

Then at Fitz.

Then at me.

Her expression clearly said: What the actual fuck just happened?

I had no answer.

None of us did.

“You know what?” Vivian said, her voice unnaturally calm. “It can wait. You should go. Fitz is waiting.”

“Fitz and I aren’t meeting until seven,” Colton said, checking his watch. “It’s only five-thirty.”

“Then you should go home and get ready.”

“For drinks at a sports bar?”

“You’ll want to look your best,” Vivian said through gritted teeth.

“Babe, I always look my best.” He flexed. “It’s kind of my thing.”

“Right. Of course. How could I forget?”

Colton leaned in to kiss her cheek. “You’re the best, you know that? Most girlfriends would be weird about their boyfriend making new friends.”

“I’m very supportive,” Vivian said flatly.

“That’s what I love about you.” He turned to Fitz. “Seven o’clock. Don’t be late.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Fitz said weakly.

And then Colton left. Just walked out of the clinic as if he hadn’t just completely derailed what was supposed to be a breakup conversation.

We all stood there in silence.

Winnie was glaring at Fitz.