Jason, hearing about my job loss, suggested
<
his friend’s company. I aced the interview and
started the next day.
A few weeks later, Jason and I were leaving
work when a Lamborghini screeched to a halt. Ethan emerged, glaring at Jason. “Who is
this?” he demanded.
I ignored him, pulling Jason away. Ethan
blocked us, sneering, “Chloe, I’m giving you a
chance. Later, you’ll be begging, and I won’t
even look at you.”
Jason grabbed Ethan’s collar. “Insulting your
ex? Are you even a man?”
Ethan scoffed. “I know what you’re thinking.
L
You want her? She’s my sloppy seconds. You
don’t…” Jason flipped him over his shoulder.
Ethan landed hard.
“You dare touch me?” he sputtered.
“Jason Reed. I work right here. Try that again,
and it won’t be so gentle.”
Ethan’s face darkened. Jason pulled me away.
“I’m sorry,” I told Jason later. “Don’t listen to
him.” I valued his friendship.
He stopped the car. “Maybe he’s right. Maybe I do want you. Did you think it was a coincidence I moved in across from you?” I
remembered a classmate had told me about the apartment. Was Jason involved?
“I heard you were moving here,” he continued,
“and I grabbed the place across the hall. I
wanted to be near you. I like you, Chloe.”
I was stunned.
Seeing my hesitation, he reassured me. “No
pressure, Chloe. I just wanted you to know.
That’s all.”
I understood. But I needed to focus on work,
not romance. And I felt friendship for Jason, not love. I wouldn’t take advantage of his
kindness.
“I’m sorry, Jason.”
He paused. “It’s okay. I appreciate your
honesty.”
