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“Slow down there, killer.” Hannah’s leg springs out to stop me from getting up. “You can’t just show up at his apartment drunker than a skunk and announce that you love him. He’ll never take you seriously.”
“Of course I can. Alcohol is a truth serum, after all.” I wag my finger at her. Okay, maybe I’m a little more inebriated than I realized.
“That might be so, but, no offense, you look awful.” She giggles. “And you smell like a bar.”
“Um, hello! So do you.”
“Yeah, but I’m not the one about to go profess my love to someone three sheets to the wind, am I?”
“What is it that you’re always saying? Life is all about taking risks.”
“I do say that, but like with everything, there are limits. Maybe you should sleep on it. Harris will still be there in the morning and you’ll be in a better head space.”
“My head space feels quite perfect right now. Thank you very much.”
“Yeah. That’s my point.”
“Where is my best friend? You know, the one that’s always down for an adventure.”
“Trying to keepherbest friend from doing something rash while she’s drunk.”
——
Despite Hannah’s reservations, less than thirty minutes later I stumble out of an Uber outside of Harris’ apartment. The ground sways beneath my feet and I know I’m probably way too drunk for my own good, but what I need to say can’t wait until tomorrow. I don’t want to go another minute without telling the man I love how I feel.
So, with an alcohol induced confidence, I straighten my shoulders and march toward his building. Hannah’s waiting in the car. She said she wasn’t leaving until she knew he was home and that I was staying put.
It’s still light outside but just barely. I haven’t looked at the clock in a while but I’d say it’s close to nine.
Before I know it I’m standing in front of Harris’ door. I don’t think I’ve ever been more nervous or excited as I raise my hand and rap my fist against the dark wood.
I’m not sure how long I wait before the door pulls open. My grasp on time is more than a little skewed but it doesn’t feel all that long.
I take a deep breath, preparing to tell him everything when my words die in my throat.
Because it’s not Harris standing in front of me. But a tall, beautiful brunette.
“I... uh...” I stutter out, glancing at the number on the door to make sure I have the right apartment. “Is Harris here?”
“He’s in the bathroom. Do you want me to grab him for you?” she questions, giving me a friendly smile.
I think I’m going to be sick.
“No, um, that’s okay.” I stumble backward, nearly losing my balance in my haste to get away.
Turning on my heel, I run as fast as my sore ankle and wobbly legs will carry me. Tears stream down my cheeks before I even make it outside.
I feel it building. The pain, the betrayal, the splintering of my heart that never should have opened up to a man like Harris Avery. I knew this would happen. I know the kind of man he is and yet I chose to get involved with him anyway, lying to myself the entire time.
I had this crazy notion that I was impervious to love. That no matter how attracted I was to someone, I wouldn’t fall in love with them because I made the decision not to love. As if love is even a choice.
I never stood a chance against Harris. I just wish I would have realized it before I ever said yes to that stupid bet.
