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You’ve got a big day too.” Jessica looked around one last time before they left. Still no sign of James.
    “What’s wrong?” Lisa’s eyes lit up. “You were looking at those guys, weren’t you? Having second thoughts?”
    Jessica giggled. “No, I was looking for someone else. You’re not going to believe who I saw tonight.”
    “Oh Jesus, another ghost from your past?”
    “Kind of.” Jessica twirled a strand of hair around her finger. “Remember the guy from earlier today? The coffee, Brooks Brothers…?”
    Lisa gasped. “You’re kidding! And you didn’t tell me? I wanted to get a look! What happened?”
    Jessica felt a pink blush color her cheeks. “He kind of…witnessed me flying off the treadmill.”
    “No!” Lisa erupted into hysterics. “Could you be any more spastic around this guy today?”
    “I know!” Jessica joined in the laughter. “But he was really sweet about it. We talked for a while in the cardio room. He bought me a water.”
    “Must be love.” Lisa winked. “Then what? Did you give him your number?”
    Jessica shook her head and flashed a sheepish look.
    “Why not?” Lisa demanded. “You said he was hot and nice, what’s the issue?”
    “Um, about three thousand miles, Li? Where the heck would this be going? Who knows when and if I’ll be back after this trip is over? You come out here all the time for your job but Charlie likes me where he can see me. And that’s Manhattan. You know that.”
    “Technicality. I’m not saying it would be perfect but not trying is giving up an opportunity to get to know someone who might turn out to be great for you.” Lisa put a hand on Jessica’s shoulder. “You’re not using the long-distance thing as an excuse, Jessie. It’s the same thing you do with your job.”
    Jessica looked at her sneakers. “I know.”
    Lisa sighed. “Sweetie, don’t you see? This situation is perfect! You could get to know each other without rushing things. You could go as slow as you want!”
    “It’s not like he asked for my number, Li.”
    “If I know you, he was probably reading your ultra-clear signal to screw off. Am I right?”
    Jessica laughed. “Not exactly. We were interrupted by your moaning and once I saw you were hurt, that kind of ended things.” She shrugged. “Anyway, he probably wasn’t interested. Like I said, he let me go and didn’t try to find me again. Maybe I didn’t make such a huge mistake by walking away.”
    “Listen, I can’t make all of your fears magically disappear. Believe me, I wish I could. I know you’re afraid and that you’re hurting. But you’re my best friend and I want you to be happy. You deserve it. You can’t avoid relationships because you’re afraid of rejection. Drew is a scumbag, forget him!” She smiled. “So next time the universe drops a hot guy in your lap, promise me you’ll give him a shot, okay?”
    “Fine, I’ll take it under consideration.” Jessica chuckled. “Believe it or not, I want to move on.” But I’m still scared…and even though everyone wants me to be happy, nobody understands what I’m going through. Is it so horrible that I want to protect myself?
     
     
    “SO SHE’S THE one you got the dress for? Nice work, man.” Chris panted as he spun around James and dribbled the basketball down the court. He jumped to take a three-point shot. “And… swish !” Chris grinned. “You didn’t ask for her number because…?”
    Because I’m an idiot! James ignored their undeniable chemistry, walked away without so much as a second glance. Yet something about her was so intriguing. Jesus, I don’t even know her last name but I can’t stop thinking about her. What the hell is up with me?
    James snapped into action and grabbed the ball. A rush of adrenaline propelled him down the court and he leapt into the air for a layup. At least my focus isn’t completely shot.
    “Show off,” Chris grumbled as he chased the loose ball.
    James smirked. “She’s only out