Chapter 10

This time I took the chance and snuck out without her knowing after she fell asleep. I grabbed everything that I had taken with me including the overnight bag that I packed also my boots and heels. I didn't want to be a bother when she could have fun with her friend Tia who desperately wanted time with her. I know their is nothing going on between them since Ashlyn admitted it but I didn't want to be in the way of a friendship that needed attention. This time I texted Shayne to let her know that I wasn't going to spend my time with Ashlyn since her friend Tia wanted time with her. Before I knew it my cell phone went off with many messages from Shayne.

Shayne: Get your ass back in that apartment with Ashlyn, you do not return home until next week and if you keep sneaking out on her like this she will never trust you. Now go back right this minute or I will force you myself.

I wanted to so badly roll my eyes at my best friend's reaction in that text message. I don't see the problem of leaving when she has a friend or ex girlfriend...I am not even sure where to put it as. I made myself go back upstairs to her apartment without making too much of a noise since she still should be asleep and made my way into her bedroom to sleep though what surprised me is when she spoke in her sleep.

"I can't see myself without you, Juliet. I have no idea where this will go but don't leave my side. I need you, want you, and feel safe with you."

I didn't need to say anything in response as she went back to sleep. I decided it would be best if I went back to the couch and cuddled with her if anything her scent would put me to sleep. I put my stuff in the inside of her bedroom and then went to the couch without moving Ashlyn too much and cuddled with her the rest of the evening.

--

By that following morning Ashlyn and I woke up at the same time with coffee and breakfast but she wanted to go to my place this time instead of being at hers. I felt so nervous about the aspect of us going to my apartment that is above the coffee shop and that would mean she could have access to my shop, office, and anything in my apartment. She could have more information that I haven't exactly told her which is my own first girlfriend that broke my heart many years ago but I have tried to leave that locked up in a box in my head so it doesn't open up anything that causes a break down. I want to play it safe with Ashlyn and keep our distance at arms length besides cuddling and just the comfort stage.

"Maybe Shayne can make me that special coffee that you enjoy so much. New flavors are never a crime." Ashlyn said, taking me out of my thoughts.

"That would be interesting since you prefer your normal order most of the time when you are there." I replied, biting my lip, feeling myself wondering if she would like my favorite.

"You can try my favorite. In return I will try yours. It will test to see if we can make each other laugh with silly faces as we try these new coffee's. You need to have some fun with this idea and maybe you can reveal some of your past to me. I know you dated someone else too because you are very guarded." Ashlyn responded, trying to hide her smirk.

"Um, how about not bringing up the past and enjoy our future? Would that be acceptable? Is it important to bring up our past like relationships, family trauma and such couldn't we just avoid that all together?" I replied wanting to hide my face from questioning her.

"Our future would be brighter if we knew one another and you wouldn't run out on me at night. Yes, I noticed that you did it again. Juliet, I will not force you to be with me as anything but running away from everything isn't going to help you or I." Ashlyn responded with a stern look and raised an eyebrow on making her point.

I stayed silent as I finished my breakfast with her because I am wanting out of this. I am wanting away from her and to go back to the customer and owner. I can't be seen with her and have nothing to do with her. This is a huge mistake on my part. I couldn't look at her anymore as I placed my silverware back on the table, wiped my mouth, and decided I am not going to stay when we need a friendship in place before staying together too much longer. I got up from the table, went to her room and grabbed everything from last night, got my shoes back on then walked out that door without looking back. Maybe, she will stay away from me and we will go on with our lives this way. I can't and won't let her in.