16. Chapter 16

Chapter 16

Sean

What about you? Did you meet anyone interesting? Jessica's words ring in my head.

Of course not. There was no way I would meet anyone interesting—or anyone at all, for that matter—because I was watching Jessica the entire night! I realize I'm getting upset and take a deep breath as I reach my door. There's no point getting upset, especially since this entire debacle was my idea. I was the one who came up with plan Get Jessica a Man. I convinced Evelyn and Jamie to get Jessica to agree to it. I co-organized the event. Invited Rick and every other guy who participated. There's really no need to get upset that she did everything I asked and found herself someone she would like to get to know better.

I unlock my door and step inside, flipping the switch on as I walk into the kitchen. At first, I reach for a bottle of cold water, then decide against it and grab a beer instead. As I reach for the bottle opener, I pause. This isn't healthy. It's past eleven, the worst time to drink alcohol. I push that thought aside, grab the bottle opener and take a swig.

When Rick and I were talking, conversation just seemed to be easy. Plus, our shared love for thrillers? Sign me up!

On a whim, I fling the bottle of water into the trash. I grab the bottle of beer and I take two swigs.

I believe Jessica when she says she and Rick clicked and had a good time. I watched her all night, and while she was friendly and having fun with everyone she engaged with I could tell that with Rick there was a spark. He had her attention and made her laugh, so I must commend him.

The most annoying part is that I can't even hate Rick or discredit him because he's a nice guy. From what I've gathered of him in our most recent encounter, he hasn't changed. He's always been a great guy, never bullies anyone, stands up for what is right, and does his fair share of charity and community work. Heck, the guy is a firefighter, for heaven's sake. He runs into burning buildings to save lives. A hero! He has everything! I should be happy for Jessica. It was her first night out, and she picked the best of the bunch.

Yet, I don't understand this weird burn in my chest. I don't know why I keep reliving the smile on Jessica's face when she talked about Rick and hating that it wasn't for me. Maybe I should have ignored her throughout the event and made new friends of my own. I put the beer down and head to my room. As soon as I walk inside, my phone buzzes in my pocket. I look and see it's Jamie.

"Hi," I breathe into the phone. "What's up?"

"You home?" He asks.

"Yes, I am. What about you? And Evie?"

"I dropped her off. She's fine. I also just got in." There's a pause. "Did Jessica say anything to you? Was this successful?"

I nod, then realize he can't see me. "Yes. She met someone. You know him. Rick."

"Forden?"

"Yes. Rick Forden."

"Amazing." Jamie laughs, and I've never felt a stronger urge to punch him before. "He's a great guy; I couldn't have picked someone better if I wanted to."

"Yeah."

"You don't sound happy."

"What?" I clear my throat. "I'm happy. This was my plan, remember? It's what I wanted for her. And, like you said, Rick is a top guy. I guess I'm just tired."

"You're right; I'm tired too. I'll talk to you tomorrow. Alright?"

"Sounds good," I say as I hang up.

The line goes dead, and I drop the phone on my bed before entering the bathroom. Half an hour later, I'm lying in my pajamas, but sleep refuses to come. It's annoying because I'm exhausted, but my mind is active with thoughts that keep me on edge.

What if Rick calls? What if Rick is as interested in Jessica as she is in him? I mean, who wouldn't be? Jessica is a beautiful, funny, intelligent woman. Who wouldn't want her? I bet he'll call.

As the thoughts sprout, I think of Jamie and sit up. What am I doing, fantasizing about his sister? I've known Jessica since we were kids. She's basically like a sister to me. I have to get rid of these feelings, and I have to do that fast. She's not a potential love interest; she's a younger sister. Evelyn's best friend! I have to take my mind off her.

I probably don't like her much; my mind is playing tricks on me. Jessica is an interesting girl, sure, but surely I couldn't be serious about wanting her for myself. It could never work!

With another sigh, I gently lower myself back on the bed, plumping the pillow before laying down my head. I must complete my task and get Jessica and Rick together, even if it means setting up the dates for them. Maybe if I see Jessica and Rick together in a romantic light, it'll solidify in my head that she is off limits. I just need to make it happen. And while that is happening, I probably should go on dates. I've never lacked prospects, not in LA and not here in Willow Falls, so I know it won't be challenging to find someone to go out with. If Jessica and I are busy with romantic partners, there will be no avenue for these thoughts of mine to focus on something that can never happen.

Since the problem seems to be on its way to being solved, I force myself to relax my mind and shut my eyes. I've got this under control; no need to panic. Slowly, I began to drift asleep. Although at the back of my mind, there's a nagging doubt that my attraction might pose a bigger problem, I try to squash it as I toss and turn. I cling to the hope that I will find a way out. I always do.