Here & Now (32 page)

“Yeah,” I replied.  “You’re probably right.  You don’t want to make her worry.”

It was suddenly awkward as we both stood in place, neither one of us moving. She looked everywhere except at me.  I was looking directly at her, trying to figure out if she was regretting what just happened.  I couldn’t tell.

She rummaged in her purse for her keys, glancing up only briefly and then walked past me to leave.  I stood there frozen while she got in Lily’s car.  She never looked back, and I didn’t know if I should try to say something or just let her go.  I stood in the same spot for another minute, inside my own head, contemplating, before I realized she was driving away. 

Damn it
.

I ran my hands through my hair and blew out a tired breath.  I shook my head, cursing myself.  I can’t believe I let her go like that.  I didn’t even say bye.  I just stood there like a jackass.

Well shit.

It was probably for the best. It wasn’t like she lived right around the corner.  She lived in freaking Colorado.  Why was I getting twisted over this anyway?  It was only a kiss.  And obviously one she wished she could take back.