Played By Riggs

23

"You must think I'm being pathetic," I said, forcing a strained laugh. "I am, though. I should just go knock, right? He's not going to get his apology when I'm sitting in the car."

"Whenever you're ready. Just know, I think Molly is counting on me to bring home chippy dinner tonight."

I laughed and then groaned. "Right. You're right." I then glanced through the window at his apartment once more. There was only one light on. "I just... hate not knowing what to say and right now, I have no idea what I want to say to him."

Keith gave a sympathetic smile. "Perhaps it will come to you when you see him?"

I exhaled a struggled breath. "Right. You're right. I'll just text him to make sure he's home."

"Sweetheart, his light's on."

"Yeah, he sometimes just keeps that on to lower his chances of getting burgled," I explained, smiling. Soon it faded. How could I remember that minor fact about him? It shouldn't matter, but it did. I paid attention to him because I cared, and because I was interested in him. The speech had started to come together...

"His car is also parked up ahead," Keith added.

"Oh," I cleared my throat. "Well, he's definitely home then."

I went to shove my phone in my bag when I saw an email notification in the corner of my phone. I quickly pulled it up. My heart jumped in my chest as I read it was from James.

Rigsby,

On Saturday, I told you that we would speak on Monday. However, it's now Monday and I haven't managed to pick up the phone and call you, so I've settled for an email. I've decided that it would be best for our business if we return back to a formal relationship.

All the best,

James.

I inhaled a deep breath and opened the door. "You can go get Molly's tea, Keith. I'm gonna be a while."

"What time shall I come pick you up?" he asked, turning the engine back on.

I remained a silent for a moment to think it over. "You know what, don't come back. I'll get James to drive me home."

His eyes quickly landed on my face, concerned. "Are you sure?"

"No. But... this way I have to be. I'll text you when I'm home."

Keith nodded and waited for me to shut the door before he drove off, leaving me stood on the pavement staring at James' door.

I knocked and stood, holding my breath. What if Claire opened the door? What if the door didn't open at all because they were having sex on his couch?

The door opened. It was James. He was in black trousers and a white shirt, which seemed he was in the midst of taking it off, because several buttons were undone. He was also staring at me with those eyes I adored, but they weren't full of the usual heat and desire, they were full of hurt. Suddenly, I was back at the fair on Saturday.

"Did you not get my email?" he asked, raising his eyebrows. "No, of course you got my email. You just chose to ignore it?"

"Well, I've been sat outside in the car for the past twenty minutes trying to get some courage as you sent the email."

"And the email gave you some?" James shook his head. "I don't want to talk, Kelsey."

"That's fine, I'll do the talking. Can I come in?"

His jaw was still clenched, his hand still on the door. "I don't think that's a good idea."

I pursed my lips. "That kind of puts me in an awkward situation then, because I told Keith that you would drive me home."