Oral Care

Chapter 9: Messier

*** Evelyn's POV ***

I waited for him for over an hour before I realized something had happened. And maybe it was for the better. I was close to breaking my own rules with him, asking for something beyond these two blissful days. I don't know what held him up, but I made the cowardly choice to run before I made things messy. Or messier, I guess.

I already was stupid to get mixed up with his family, but they were so damn friendly and intriguing compared to my family who would have been stand-offish and rude in these same circumstances. Yes, it was better that we didn't have another night like the one before. And a farewell scene that was bound to have me wanting something that wasn't mine to ask for.

Now I am sitting in the airport, regretting my decision. Wondering if he ever came looking for me. Wondering what he will tell his family. I groan and turn my attention to my destination. My new home, at least for the duration of this contract.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Pittsburgh once claimed to have more bridges than anywhere in the world. Not by a longshot, but they definitely have plenty of work for my skill set and I had many offers in the region. The contract I accepted was for two years with the potential for renewal and extension because, as I mentioned, there were quite a few bridges that need some attention. My gig also includes a posh condo right near the cultural district of the city with spectacular views of the rivers. I sure as hell wasn't going to be in Texas anymore.

But even as I think of my spectacular digs and getting along in my new city, it suddenly seems very lonely. What the hell is wrong with me? I'm not the type who needs the constant reassurance of another person. I am self-assured and independent. Significant others, hell even some friendships, are so damn stifling.

Two damn days with Rafael is getting under my skin and I don't like it. At all. I sit and stew until it seems like a reasonable time to call someone who would remind me of the bad-ass bitch I am, the only person back home who doesn't judge me for rejecting the comfort of a steady relationship and the familiarity of home.

"What do you frigging want, bitch?" My best friend grumbles, sounding like maybe I misjudged the time.

"Good morning." I chirp.

"Maybe it is where you are, but it's still sleeping hours here." She sounds like she hasn't even bothered to lift her head from the pillow.

"I know it's early but I need to talk. I think I made a mistake." I lay it out, hoping she takes pity, a position that I am not used to being in.

"Aren't you still at that resort? What type of mistake did you make? Ordering a pina instead of a mojito? Forgetting to reapply sunscreen? I have no pity." She rants, but I know I am getting somewhere with her regardless.

"I think I caught the feels for a guy that I'll never see again. It's kinda messing with my head." I share quietly.

"Whoa. Are you talking about Miguel?" Suddenly I have her full attention.

"No." I sigh. "I met this guy here. We had this fast and furious connection. The sex was unbelievable. I even attended his sister's wedding reception so I could have another night with him."

"That doesn't sound like you at all. Who are you and what have you done with my bestie?" She teases. I laugh along, but it sounds hollow. "Okay, so why not do what normal people do when they want to stay in touch with someone?"

"I can't. I left the resort already. Flight leaves in an hour. No time to go back. Plus, something happened. We were supposed to see each other again, but he never came back to my room." I share it all, feeling foolish that I didn't just stand up and take charge when I had the opportunity.