Page 25 of Good For Me

“Jas.”

I don’t know what she hears in my voice but her shoulders straighten, some of her usual confidence coming back to her expression. “I had a really good time with you last night, River. Thank you.”

“That’s what your note said,” I say, voice filled with all the bitterness I’m feeling at being thanked for sleeping with her. Like I’m a fucking stud service or something, doing her a favor.

“I meant it,” she says. “Yesterday was a shitty day and the night with you was exactly what I needed.” Before those words can even soothe the sting, she goes on. “Uncomplicated, no-strings fun.”

And there it is.

“No strings, huh?”

Something flashes across her face but she keeps the tight smile firmly in place. “No strings,” she reiterates. “No expectations. Just one night to blow off some steam. It was great.”

I kind of want to throw up but I shouldn’t be surprised. Of course she isn’t feeling the same way I am. Why on earth would she? This is exactly what I was afraid of. Jas wanted an easy hookup to forget her troubles for a while, and I was clearly the perfect candidate for that.

It’s ridiculous to think she’d want something more. Not from me. A fucking bartender who can’t manage to hang onto a job for more than a few months. A guy who has no clue what he wants to do, no plans, no goals.

I’m the kind of guy everyone has fun with. And there’s a damn big difference between fun andmore. When it comes to Jasmine, I definitely want more. For the first time in my fucking life. But she clearly doesn’t feel the same way. I can’t even blame her.

So I plaster my best big, charming, smooth-as-hell smile on my face. “I should be the one thanking you,” I say, somehow keeping my voice light. “You’re a real fun time, Jas.”

She winces, but holds my gaze. “You too, Riv.

We stare at each other for a moment longer before I finally can’t take it anymore. I can’t stand here for another minute without falling to my knees and begging her to give me a real chance. So instead I duck back into the office and grab my jacket and keys. Out in the hallway, Jas remains standing in the exact same place.

“Everything’s all set,” I tell her. “You’ll lock up behind me?”

“Sure.” I can’t tell if I’m hearing regret or relief in her voice but it doesn’t really matter.

I give her a wave over my shoulder and head to the front door, trying not to think about everything else I wish I’d been brave enough to say.