Dating Delaney (10 page)

Jake sets me in the truck and closes my door. I don't even
look back once as we pull away. Once he’s driven a safe distance down the
street I pull my hands away from my face and stare vacantly out the window,
trying to process everything that just happened.

Dating Delaney 303

“Laney? Are you all right?” I ask tentatively.

“How much of that did you witness?” she asks dejectedly.

“Somewhere around ‘you’d watch and let me struggle the way I
have for the last thirteen years’ right up until you started to beat him up,” I
answer. She sighs and keeps her gaze focused out the window.

“I honestly don't know,” she whispers.

“What?” I coax.

“What is love really, anyways?” she rambles. “Is it dictated
or chosen, and if it was ever there and it left does it mean it was never
true?” Seeing her right now so upset and confused kills me, I give her what I
can but it doesn’t feel like much.

“Love is unconditionally being willing to enter into another
person’s brokenness,” I say softly. She sucks in a deep breath and turns,
searching my eyes.

“That’s the perfect thing to say.” She holds my gaze a
moment longer. I reach over and lace my fingers through hers. “So, where are we
going?”

“I’m not ready to go home yet. What were you doing?” She
straightens her shoulders a little.

“Owen and I were hanging at his place.”

“Let’s do that,” she says.

“I don't think you’d find that fun,” I say flatly.

“Anything will be fun after the cookout,” she says in with
deadpan tone, making me chuckle.

“It’s your funeral,” I tease.

“Bring it,” she says as a small smile spreads over her face.
I want to ask about what exactly happened. I only caught bits and pieces at the
end but I don't think she wants to talk about it so I let it go.

* * * * *

“Well bang my wang, look who it is!” Owen shouts as we walk
through the door. This was probably a bad idea, bringing her here. O is buzzed
and his filter is gone.

“Bang your wang?” she says and cocks her head at him.

“Awww, I’d love that, Laney, but you’re Jake’s girl,” he
teases.

“Charming.” Sarcasm drips off her.

I quickly make my way to the fridge to get us a beer, hoping
that it will take the edge off, for both of us. Three beers later I start
wishing I hadn't given either of them even one beer.

“Drip sill!” she squeaks.

Owen thinks hard for a moment. “Mustache Comb!”

“Grundle!” Laney shouts.

“Gooch!”

“Perineum!” she retorts.

“Hey! No correct terminology!” Owen laughs.

For the past three minutes they’ve been holding a contest to
see who knows more words for the term taint. I’m laughing so hard I’m crying
and tears are sliding down my face but they seem completely comfortable with
the conversation.

“Whatever...” Laney looks around, “is that a dart board?!”

“Yeah, you want to play a game?” I ask.

“Sure!” she says while pushing off the couch and heading for
the board. Owen looks at me, eyes twinkling. “She’s okay I guess. I retract all
previous twat blocker comments.”

“Ha. Ha. Owen.”

“You called me a twat blocker?!” she squeals.

“Yup,” Owen clips.

“Why? I haven't blocked any twat from you...” She looks at
Owen curiously.

“Laney, Laney, Laney. When the wingman technique is used,
both girls are approached by the men, and the wingman automatically engages in
conversation with the ugly girl. His job is then to offer the ugly girl to
dance, which rarely happens to her, so she can't resist, thus leaving me to the
hot girl. But ever since you showed up, he won't even take one for the team.”

Laney looks to me. “Awww, Jake, your sandy vagina misses
you,” she says and jerks her head at Owen. He chokes and spits beer all over
the floor.

“What?! I’m a what?!” he crows. Laney laughs and shrugs it
off, handing me a set of darts.

“Let’s play, pansies!” she yells.

Three more beers later I actually feel bad for them both.
Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I’d find a woman who’d tolerate
Owen, let alone get along with him. He tends to be an acquired taste--one that
anything with a vagina can't acquire.

“Listen, Sandy, I told you I was good at darts, there’s no
need to get bent out of shape over losing,” she jabs. Owen and Laney have been
going back and forth for the last five minutes about her current three-game
winning streak. Although their banter is funny, it’s late and I’m tired.

“Laney, it’s late and I’m getting tired, you about ready to
go home?” I ask her.

When she turns to me I notice she’s swaying slightly and her
eyes are looking a little glassy. “Sure thing, Mr. Magic Mouth.”

As soon as the words are out of her mouth her hand shoots up
and clamps over it.
 “Mr. Magic Mouth?” Owen chimes in. I keep my eyes trained on hers and ignore
Owen. “Have I been re-nicknamed?” I ask. A grin breaks out on her face and she
blushes.

“Umm...”

“Hold UP! You nickname people?” Owen asks.

She turns to Owen and grabs his face between her hands,
squishing it up into a fishy face. “You’re kinda cute when I’m drunk,” she
giggles. “And yes, I nickname guys. You have been dubbed Sandy, obviously,
because you’re a sandy vagina!” She falls into a fit of laughter as Owen and I
stand and stare at her.

“How come he gets Magic Mouth?” Owen whines.

“I can't tell you that,” she winks. Suddenly I feel the need
to get out of Owen’s and fast.

“Come on, let’s go, Drunk-o.” I grab her hand and lead us
towards the door.

“Bye Sandy!” she calls to Owen.

“OH!! I get it!
Magic Mouth
!”

I watch Owen dissolve with laughter as I shut the door
behind me.

Delaney

“That was funnn.” I sound funny. Ahh, yes, I’m on the cusp
of full-fledged drunkenness. I giggle at myself.

“So, Magic Mouth, huh?” Jake asks and all giggling stops
instantly, replaced by horror.

“I said that out loud, didn't I?” I ask.

“Yup.” He grins. He’s
grinning!

“Uh well…you know,” I try and brush it off. “Let’s listen to
some music.” I am the master of suave. Obviously.

Jake flashes his dimples at me while he turns the radio on
and music floods the cab. His hand finds mine in the dark and he laces his
fingers through mine while rubbing his thumb up and down my finger. It’s
soothing and I find myself not wanting to lose the feeling. My heart feels like
a million pounds right now and his comforting gesture makes me feel content. By
the time we arrive home, the night’s events have caught up to me full tilt and
I’m drained.

“Despite the reason, I’m glad I got to see you tonight,”
Jake murmurs to me as his mouth draws impossibly close to mine without
connecting.

“Mmm, me...” is as far as I get before his mouth comes down
on mine. I let my hands drift up his sides as he softly kisses me. His body’s
hard in all the right places and his skin is hot and smooth. I hook my thumbs
in the waistband of his jeans and drag them slowly side to side. He groans into
my mouth. I like the way his muscles twitch when I touch them.

“Laney, you’re killing me,” he groans and stills my hands.

“The feeling is mutual,” I coo.

“I really
should
go,” he tells me.

I nod and push up on my tiptoes to give him one last kiss
before he leaves. When he breaks the kiss he leans to the side and places the
softest kiss just behind my ear. I love it. It’s so intimate, special. My belly
whooshes.

“Night, Laney.” His voice is rough.

“Night,” I whisper back. He waits until I’m safely inside
before getting back in his truck and heading home. Such a gentleman. What I
wouldn't give to have him hold me all night, to wake up in his arms. I shake my
head of the thoughts. I plug in my phone, ignoring the ten texts from Gavin,
check on Claire, and collapse into bed.

* * * * *

“Laney!” Gavin shouts. It’s too early for his shenanigans. I
yank my phone to me, ignoring his screaming, to see that I have ten missed
calls and twenty-five new texts. All from Gavin.

“Laney, goddamnit talk to me,” he caterwauls. I roll out of
bed groaning and throw on a sweatshirt before heading to the door.

“What,” I clip through the glass.

“Jesus, let me in,” Gavin pleads.

“No,” I bark.

“Princess,” he begs.

“Fuck you, Gavin,” I grind out and turn to exit the mudroom.

“Okay! Okay, I’ll talk to you through the door,” he whines
at me. I turn back around.

“You’re really mad,” he states.

“Thank you, Captain Obvious,” I deadpan.

“Jesus, all right...” He runs a hand over his face before
tilting his head back and pinching the bridge of his nose. “I love you, Laney.
I’ve loved you for so long I can't even remember a time when I didn't,” he
confides. I stand stunned. He has, of course< told me he loves me, but not
like this, not like he loves me as in he’s
in love
with me.

“What the hell are you talking about, Gav?”

“I’m in love with you, Laney. I always have been. I intended
on acting on that, you know, after you and John broke up. But, when I saw what
I did to you.” He shakes his head. “I…I knew you needed a lot of time...and
then…when I sorta tried to feel you out later on…you looked at me as just a friend,
I mean, I could see it in your eyes, I knew I was always going to be
just
a friend. So, I chickened out and never told you how I felt. Never pursued you.
Not like that, anyways.” He shuffles his feet and stares at the ground. I stand
silent, shocked. “Laney,
say
something,” he pleads.

“I honestly don't know what to say. You knew how much I
loved John, you knew how much he loved me. You sabotaged that. On purpose. We
both trusted you. Gavin, at any point in time you could have told me how you
felt...without breaking us up. I just. I’m done. I see you for you now. I don't
think our friendship can survive this,” I explain. And I don't. I don't see any
way for us to weather this storm.

“Laney, please…don’t cut me out of your life,” he begs.

“I’m sorry, Gavin…I’m so sorry. This isn't high school, I
don't have room in my life for
friends
like you. I can't do it. Go home,
Gav, go home and fix things with your wife. Make yourself a good life and stay
out of mine.” I cross my arms over my chest as I start to tremble. This is the
right choice. I believe in it, too, but cutting someone who’s been in your life
for twenty years that you cared for out is hard. He puts his palm on the glass.

“Laney...don't.” His voice breaks and it almost breaks me
but somehow I manage to keep myself together.

“Goodbye, Gavin.” I turn quickly before my tears fall and
dart back in the house. He doesn't leave. I can hear him on the porch calling
me. Twenty minutes later, he finally gives up and pulls down the driveway,
disappearing. It takes the better part of my morning to cry all my tears out
and mourn the loss of my friend, but eventually I end up out of tears and
surprisingly feeling all right.

After writing for four hours and a late afternoon spa date
with Claire, I’m feeling much better. Mostly like my good old self. Claire and
I spend an hour at bedtime reading together and after she's soundly asleep I
pop in
The Breakfast Club
and enjoy the show.

* * * * *

I shoot Jake a text just to say hi and see what’s up.:

Hey MM

MM?

MagicMouth!

Aww. yes. What’s happenin hotstuff?

Funny I was just watching an 80’s flick- not 16 candles tho

Which one?

Breakfast Club.

Classic. How’re doing today?

Bit of a hangover this morning & a gavin siting but day
ended up just right.

Everything ok? Need me to take him out for you?

Ha! I think that he got my drift. Thx for the offer tho

So then, what's up?

Just wanted to read your voice I guess.

Anyone ever tell you you’re strange?

Sure. Is it a problem ?

Nah, I like strange.

Sweet!

Have an early morning... see you soon.

Night.

* * * * *

“Knock, knock!”

“Who’s there?” I laugh.

“Uh…this wasn't supposed to be a joke...I was actually
knocking,” Jake says outside my bedroom door.

I set the laptop to the side, climb off the bed, and open the
door for him.

“Hi,” he says, holding out a plate with a sandwich on it to
me. “Hungry?” The site of food makes my stomach growl loudly. I have to
remember to eat breakfast.

“Yup. Sounds like I’m starving!” I laugh and take the plate
from him. “Thank you.”

“You really do lose track of time when you’re writing, don’t
you?” he teases.

“Yeah, it’s a bad habit.” I take my plate to the kitchen and
join him for a late lunch. Thinking of him moving around my kitchen making me
lunch brings a smile to my face.

“So, what’s going on Saturday?” he asks after swallowing a
bite of his sandwich.

“OH! Yeah, the Fourth. I’m going to plan on being there
around noon if you want to join me. We’re going to hang at the lake and then
BBQ dinner and watch the fireworks. Everyone is sleeping there and no one is
bringing kids,” I smile.

“What time should I be here?” he asks.

“Eleven-thirty should be fine. Make sure you remember a
bathing suit and bring whatever you want to drink,” I answer.

“Got it,” he winks. “Can I show you something?” he
questions. I check the clock, making sure I have enough time before leaving to
pick up Claire. I can’t believe it’s three-thirty already.

“Sure.”

Jake leads me to the living room and up the stairs to the
second floor.

“Close your eyes,” he says when we’re halfway up the stairs.

“We’re on stairs, I can't climb with closed eyes,” I say
dryly.

“Trust me, Laney.”

I close my eyes and a hand comes to the small of my back
while the other takes my left hand. He guides me up the last four steps
carefully until we are on the landing. He twists my body slightly and brings
his mouth to my ear. His breath sends tingles shooting through my body.

“Open,” he says softly. My eyes flutter open and I pan
around the upstairs in complete shock and awe. Just over two weeks ago it was
just an open, peaked space. Now there are two bedrooms, both dormered. The
doors to each room are open and we’re standing in the hallway. There’s an
amazing built-in at the top of the landing under a brand new window overlooking
the fields behind the house. I squeal and immediately go to Claire’s room
first, dragging Jake with me.

“Holy crap, Jake! This is amazing!” I gush. Claire’s room
has two perfect dormers with windows that will fit a full-size bed into them
with gorgeous built-in bookcases and shelving surrounding each window. Both
windows are open and a summer breeze that smells like the ocean moves through
the room.

“It’s perfect! I can’t believe you got her room done so
quickly!” I rave.

“Want to see your room?” he suggests.

“My room’s done too!?” I crow. He nods at me, takes my hand,
and leads me to my room.

The full dormer is amazing. It opens the space up so much it
looks like a completely different room. When we step into the room I instantly
am drawn to the three large windows looking over the fields. He built shelving
around my windows too and each shelf has a small vase on it with hydrangeas,
peonies, or dahlias in them. The whole thing is overwhelming.

“Jake, it’s so perfect. The flowers too…you didn't have to
do that,” I say and turn to him. He shrugs and smiles down at me. As he leans
down and I push up to meet him I notice a sliding door just behind the bedroom
door.

“WHAT?!?!?!?!!?” I yell in excitement, totally forgetting we
were about to kiss. He looks startled for a moment and then sees where I’m
pointing.

“Check it out,” he chuckles. I all but run the three steps
over to the sliding door and pull it open. Ho-ly SHIT! It’s a closet. But not
just any closet, it’s like one of those fancy has-a-compartment-for-everything IKEA
closets but it’s all hand made. Somehow it doesn’t take up too much room
either, which is why I didn't intend on having a closet built, because I wanted
to maximize floor space. There is even a small sliding tray with shoe holders
in it! I spin around wide-eyed and leap across the space between us. Jake lets
out an audible “oof” as he catches me. I wrap my legs around his waist and grab
his face, pulling his cheeks into a fishy face. “I LOVE IT! IT’S AMAZING!” I’m
screaming. Jesus, Laney, take it down a notch. Jake laughs at me and when he
does I can feel his hardness bumping against me with his laughs.

“Yuww don't hafta yell,” he chuckles through fishy-face
cheeks.

I loosen my grip on his face and stare into his perfect
eyes. His hands are on my ass, holding me to him, and he squeezes a little. I
lean my head down and bring my lips to his. I run my tongue across his top lip
and he lets out a tiny groan. Our tongues dance together as I squeeze my thighs
tighter around his waist. He walks us back a few steps until I’m pressed
against the wall. His mouth moves from mine, left to my ear, and then travels
south, down my neck. I tilt my head, giving him better access, as he moves to
my collarbone. Goose bumps break out across my chest as his tongue and lips barely
make contact with my skin, tracing tiny circles. When he reaches the tops of my
breasts, I think I might explode. There are too many pieces of clothing between
us.
Why are we clothed?
Before I can make a move for the hem of my tank
top, his mouth is back on mine. I think he’s literally kissing me stupid
because I can't form a coherent thought. All I know is that if he stops now I
will die.

“You’re delicious,” he growls into my mouth and pushes his
groin into mine, grinding slowly. It feels so good that I lose any control over
my body that I might have been retaining up until this moment. “Too many
clothes...stop talking…mother of god--you’re amazing,” I rasp between kisses.
He grinds into me one more time before setting me down.

“No!” I whine at the loss of him.

“Laney, I’m not taking you here like this. Not the first
time we’re together,” he pants at me. I groan and seriously consider kicking
him in the shin. I feel a tantrum coming on.

“I want to punch you in the face right now,” I blurt.

He laughs at me then leans down and gives me a mind-numbing
kiss to which I melt into.

“You have the
best
lines, Delaney Peters,” he grins.

“You have the
best
self-control…it’s annoying,” I
return.

“Hey, there’s a kid-free sleepover in two days. I want you
just as badly as you want me. I just…I don't know, I want it to be right,” he
explains and my heart turns to mush. He wants it to be right. I do too, but my
willpower ceases to exist when his hands, mouth, or, well, anything are
touching me. I sigh and rest my head on his chest. He gives me a kiss on the
top of my head and wraps his arms around me.

“Thanks for the closet. The rooms are amazing. You’re
amazing. I love it all,” I tell him.

His arms give me a little squeeze. The completion of the
second floor, of my house, should bring me joy. Closure. Project done.
Accomplishment. But I’m filled with a feeling a loss as it dawns on me that
with the completion of my house comes the loss of Jake.