Drunk In Love (Crushing Hard Series Book 3)

Dear Dairy: 31/07/2019

Thursday

I showed up to work today still feeling the effects of last night. My alarm jolted me awake, and I found myself face down on the bed, fully clothed. There were three things I was certain of:

1. Caitlin wasn't passed out on my couch. I was alone and couldn't remember how I got home.

2. I needed to get to work for an important meeting that had nothing to do with me, but Aisha insisted I attend.

3. I was still, without a doubt, feeling the alcohol from the night before.

I jumped into the shower, using every tropical-scented gel I had to mask the lingering smell of alcohol. I dressed quickly, opting for high-heeled pumps, formal pants, a turtleneck, and a tan suede coat to fight off the cold. After downing a scalding cup of coffee and a Redbull (I'm addicted to them), I stumbled outside. Realizing I was in no condition to drive-still unsure of how my car even made it home-I ordered an Uber.

As I arrived at work, Talia at the front desk kindly pointed out I was still wearing my headscarf. Luckily, I was only at reception, so I yanked it off before anyone else could see. And because life has a way of testing me, Scott walked in right at that moment.

He looked as striking as ever in a tailored black suit, with a navy shirt casually unbuttoned at the top, exposing just enough of his neck to bring back some very distracting memories. His face lit up when he saw me, his smile so bright I could feel it in my chest.

"Good morning, Thandi. I see you're going for a bold look today," he teased, glancing at my headscarf before I ripped it off in embarrassment.

"Not intentional," I muttered, stuffing it into my bag, grateful my braids were at least passable.

Scott leaned in, and for a second, I thought he was about to kiss me, even though we'd agreed to keep things discreet at work. My heart jumped, and I leaned in too, but he stopped short, sniffing my breath instead.

"Have you been drinking?" he asked quietly.

"What? No! I mean, not now," I stammered.

"Last night then? You smell like a brewery," he whispered, his tone filled with concern.

I sighed, dropping the pretense. "Yeah... I went out with Caitlin last night."

He smiled sympathetically and guided me to my desk, his hand resting on my lower back. While I appreciated the help, it only heightened the tension between us, especially after that almost-kiss.

"Scott, can you please not touch me? I'm already struggling here, and you're not helping," I whispered.

He raised an eyebrow and gave me a look that sent my heart racing. Before things could escalate, Aisha poked her head out of her office.

"Scott, you look amazing!" she gushed, using that annoyingly sweet voice she reserves just for him.

Normally, I'd keep quiet during these interactions, but still feeling the effects of last night, my filter was gone.

"I know, right? He always looks good. But today, he looks especially good," I said, loud enough for the whole office to hear. "I know we agreed to take things slow, but maybe just for today, we should break that rule."

You could've heard a pin drop. Aisha's face was priceless-her mouth hanging open in shock. Scott just chuckled, amused.

"Rules are meant to be broken," he replied, walking into Aisha's office while she kept glancing between us.

I sat at my desk, quite pleased with myself for the bold comment. But as the day dragged on and the alcohol wore off, the embarrassment set in. The whole office was buzzing with gossip. People were whispering about Scott and me, with rumors even starting that I'd ruined his previous relationship-none of which was true. It felt like high school drama all over again, and I had no doubt who was behind it. Natasha, who had recently been warming up to me, reverted to her cold demeanor. Even Aisha seemed a little distant. It was frustrating, and by the end of the day, I was ready for a break from the judgmental stares.

Scott was sweet about the whole thing, texting me throughout the day to check in and assure me it would all blow over. He suggested I grab an overnight bag and stay at his place to unwind after the chaos, and honestly, I didn't hate the idea. I had his spare key, so I went home, packed up, and headed to his place.

Now I'm here, waiting for him to come home. I've even cooked dinner, and I can't wait to see him after the mess of a day I've had.