Not good for you

31;

I followed Leigh and Emilia into a restaurant that was both inviting and colorful. The vibrant hues brought a smile to my face, and my eyes were quickly drawn to a medium-sized fountain across the room. Framed photos of employees and local patrons adorned the walls, enhancing the already warm atmosphere.

A kind waitress escorted us to the table Emilia had reserved, conveniently located near the fountain. After I set my purse down and took a seat, I scanned the surroundings.

After our fight, Seeley locked himself in his bedroom, and I took the longest time to get dressed and put on my makeup so I wouldn't have a chance to run into him either way. I was still angry and disappointed about how our argument had ended, but I had to swallow the lump in my throat and go on with my life. Seeley wasn't going to admit how problematic his relationship with Clara was, and I could never force him to see himself the way I did. It frustrated me that his kindness and affection were wasted on someone who couldn't care less about him.

I tried to forget about him and the hurtful things he'd said to me before we left. Tonight was about us girls, and I didn't want to ruin that. I also felt the need to step outside our usual circle a little, especially after Seeley lost his cool with me out of nowhere earlier.

"How did you find this place?" I asked as I opened one of the menus placed on the table. The list of drinks and food was endless.

Emilia offered a small smile and adjusted her napkin.

"It was Leigh who suggested that we should come here," she admitted, and Leigh nodded with a proud smile.

"Last week, I met an older woman at work who's had enough of her husband's nonsense and stayed with me until she finished her drink," she said. "After her fourth glass of martini, she told me about a place she always loved. She mentioned it might be a bit pricey, but it's worth it. So, I figured that we might try something new and also have the chance to catch up with each other."

"I can definitely see the 'bit pricey' thing," I replied, browsing the menu. I felt an inexplicable optimism about this restaurant.

I tried to ignore the thoughts of my earlier argument with Seeley, but his words replayed in my mind as my eyes scanned the pages. I wouldn't give up because he deserved so much more. But again, I wasn't sure if I could truly give him what he needed. I never imagined I could be ready for a new relationship after my asshole of an ex-boyfriend. I was afraid that I wouldn't be a good girlfriend.

I needed time to heal and overcome my insecurities and painful memories, but Seeley seemed to be losing his patience. As days passed, I noticed how much more lost he appeared while Clara was probably having the time of her life back in Hillsboro with some other guys. It felt unfair that she was getting what she wanted without even thinking about Seeley's feelings. However, I was sure now that he didn't love her. If he couldn't say those three words, then it wasn't love—more like a twisted blend of lust and pity. I thought the only reason Seeley tolerated and asked her out was that he believed he deserved someone like her. And I felt bad for him about that.

As if Leigh could read my mind, she leaned on her elbows and said:

"Girls, do you know what's been going on with Seeley?" she asked after we'd ordered our food. "He's been acting differently lately, or is it just me?"

Me. That's what has been happening with him.

I tensed but tried to hide my confusion by sipping my water. I didn't want them to know how nervous I was.

"He seems the same to me. Why?" Emilia asked, and we exchanged a questioning look.

Leigh grazed the tip of her finger across her glass while glancing at the lights above us.