Madison

I get to the apartment, completely missing Bryce, and walk inside. All I want to do is be in comfy clothes and spend time with my best friend.

Kaylee comes out from her bedroom and takes one look at me. “You had hot sex! Tell me!”

The knock on our door makes us turn our heads toward the noise. I look at Kaylee, then back at the door, wondering who is here.

“Oh! Shit. I forgot I ordered takeout!” Kaylee puts down her wine glass and goes to open the door. I’m thankful she ordered food. My stomach growls, and I realize I haven’t had anything to eat all day.

I take a final drink before grabbing the wine bottle to pour myself another glass. Tonight, my diet’s going out the window. All I need are my best friends—Kaylee, wine, and food.

We spend the rest of the evening vegging out and eating Chinese food. She fills me in on another horrendous date.

“Men with a foot fetish creep me out.” I cackle, holding my belly since I’m laughing so hard.

“What’s wrong with me? All the men I’ve dated suck. Ugh. So annoying.”

“Nothing’s wrong with you. Sometimes, you have to kiss a few frogs until you find your prince. You’re trying so hard to find a connection. If you stop, focus on something other than getting dick, I’m positive you’ll meet someone worth it. Because you’re worth it, Kaylee Calkin.”

She smiles, bringing her hand to mine, and nodding before we finish eating. After putting the empty containers away, we order a movie on iTunes and down three bottles of wine before calling it a night. I strip out of my clothes and get into bed naked. Today has been a shit show, and I’m ready for it to be over and start a new day.

A day without drama.

It’s another slow day at work, so Glenn’s having us work on mindless tasks. We have a few last-minute appointments for tomorrow, but the outfits are ready. I only have to switch out a dress shirt for one client and then his package will be all set.

“Ready for lunch?” Kaylee asks.

I put down the shirt and nod. “Yes, please.”

We head out to The Gage and are immediately seated.

“Have you talked to him today?”

I shake my head. “I’m giving him space. He needs to figure out some shit before we can go further.”

“I know this is hard for you, but stay strong, babe. You’ve been through so much in your life and look at you. You’re successful, smart, sexy as hell, and nabbed one of the most eligible bachelors in Chicago.”

I smile because my best friend is the most amazing woman in the world. “Thank you. I’m a little sad because I miss him. I’m telling myself this is how it must be for now.” My tone gets lower and softer. “I think I need to spend time with my dad. I haven’t seen him in a while, and it’s only an hour drive. I miss home.”

“That doesn’t sound like a bad idea. After the gala, things should calm down, so no more working every weekend.”

I raise my glass of water. “Amen to that.”

We finish lunch in forty minutes and head back to work. The afternoon goes by faster, and as we’re getting ready to leave, Kaylee checks her phone and frowns.

“Are you up for drinks?”

“Not really. Go ahead. I’ll be fine.”

Kaylee hugs me and kisses my cheek goodbye, and I walk toward my car. Before getting in, I stare at the Audi. The loaner from Bryce. Right at that moment, my phone vibrates, and it’s Bryce.

Bryce: I need to see you soon.

Madison: I know, and you will.

Bryce: Spend the night with me.

Madison: Not tonight. I need some me time. I’ll come over tomorrow.

Bryce: If you don’t, I’ll find you.

Madison: I know you will.

The apartment’s quiet when I get home. A night in is just what I need. Galen wanted to grab drinks for happy hour, and I felt bad for turning him down, but I told him next time for sure. Tonight, I need me time to refocus and gather myself.

After two chick flicks, the door opens, and Kaylee comes in. She walks over to me and sits down, placing her head on my shoulder. Words aren’t needed. Right now, she needs her best friend and not anyone’s advice.