“That should be your ride.”
“Seems so... How do I look, though?” I turned around slowly.
“Absolutely gorgeous. I am sure he will have a hard time focusing on anything else.”
“Thanks, Joey,” I blushed, “but don’t forget that this whole adventure is meant to be temporary.”
“No, it’s not. It's to help you move on, so we will see where it leads.”
“Just help me lock up whenever. I will give you a call if things go awry.”
“I’m sure it won’t. Just loosen up and have a beautiful evening.”
“You too, love. My regards to Lorenzo.” With that, I left. I didn’t want to be late and have Avery waiting longer than necessary.
My evening was going amazingly well. Avery didn’t disappoint. He could hold down a good conversation without running out of witty responses. It was probably just the perks of meeting someone new, but he was fun to be around and I loved the feeling.
It was a weird comparison, but Avery reminded me of Kevin. His cuteness and candor, his features and physique, even the way he listened to my explanations with rapt attention, like I was making a public service announcement.
I was trying to get Kevin out of my head, but I had been thinking about him for the past hour. I couldn't shake him off. He was gradually becoming a standard that I expected every other guy to meet, if they couldn't beat it.
“Licia, I honestly enjoy talking with you, and I really do want to get to know you better. So, can we do this again? It doesn't have to be this week or even the next. I just want to see you again, if it's okay with you?”
I smiled, “but tonight's date isn't over yet.”
“I know. I’m sorry if I'm going ahead of myself, but then I can't help it.” He apologized.
“You are not... I actually do not mind seeing you again.”
He was elated. “I will love to cook for you on our next date.”
“Seriously?” I asked, undoubtedly impressed.Kevin can't cook.
“Yeah… It would be my utmost pleasure.”
“Very well, then. I look forward to it.”
I wasn’t sure what Avery had in mind, but whatever his plan was, it was working and effortlessly too.
Chapter Fourteen
Kevin
The more I tried to convince myself that everything was fine, the clearer it became that something was off. I had requested that the home nursing arrangement be terminated.
My parents weren't thrilled about my decision, but it was my choice, and they had to respect it. I had also missed my appointment with the ortho doctor, but so far, I was managing okay with just taking my meds.
Being friends with Licia wasn’t working. Our phone conversations were casual and brief, and she refused any in-person meetings. I knew why. I could tell she still felt something but preferred to live in denial rather than give it another shot.
I kept myself occupied with endless engagements and meetings. But no matter how much I distracted myself during the day, reality hit hard when I was alone. It was like a nightmare, creeping up on me every time I closed my eyes. There was no escaping it.
Today wasn’t going to be any different. I had a special appearance scheduled at a sports fest in the afternoon, followed by a visit to one of the new properties we’d secured.
I had made this arrangement with Joey, mainly as an excuse to ask about Licia under the guise of business, if Licia wouldn’t tell me anything herself, maybe Joey would.
I was getting ready to leave when Lexie’s call came in. I knew she was at home, so why call? She always found new ways to bother me, so I wasn’t surprised. In fact, I’d be more shocked if she gave me any breathing space.
“What is it this time?” I asked coldly.
