Jake has been sleeping in my office for a few weeks, and shuffling around my condo when he isn't reporting for his temporary placement for shore duty on the base while I continue to try to live my life.
I don't mind having Jake around, but he's become more than a little codependent, and while we used to be close, we've never relied on each other as much as I feel like he's relying on me now. I have no issues in supporting him through this difficult time and being a strong friend for him when he can't be strong for himself, and I constantly have to remind myself that it's only been a few weeks, but having him always underfoot after I've lived alone all this time is starting to wear on me.
I'm packing up at work when I hear my phone start to buzz in my desk drawer. I forgot my watch at home, so I sigh before opening the drawer to see who's calling me. Jake has already texted me about a dozen times, asking if I want to make dinner together or go to the movies. I've put him off all day, mostly because I've been busy, but also because I know that Edward has been just as busy, and I want to see him.
When I see my boyfriend's name flashing across the screen, I scoop up the device to answer quickly. "Hey. It's a little early for you to be calling me, isn't it?"
"Maybe, but I was desperate to hear your voice. I feel like we've barely spoken in the last week or so." It sounds like he's walking or driving with the window down.
Sitting back in my chair, I sigh. "I was just thinking about how much I wanted to see you. What's going on?"
"Well, I need to talk to Jake, so I'm heading to your place. His command only worked for half a day."
I groan. "That explains why he was blowing up my phone." I explain to Edward how I've been feeling, and he definitely sympathizes with me, but as so often lately, he's the voice of reason.
"I know it isn't easy, especially because you value your independence. But, Jake is your friend, our friend. We need to support him right now and help me make the best decisions for his future." He sighs. "It sucks; I know it does. But I might have a solution, at least for this weekend."
"Tell me more," I say with a smile.
"Meet me at your place, and I'll fill you in."
When I get home, I find Edward and Jake sitting at the kitchen table in a deep discussion. I leave them be and head to my bedroom to change out of my work clothes. What I find on my bed is my weekender bag and a sunflower with a note telling me to pack. I change quickly, and by the time I've packed enough clothes for two days, Edward pops into my room, wrapping his arms around my waist.
He sniffs my hair as he nuzzles my neck. "I missed you."
We sway lightly, and I sigh. "Me too." I turn in his arms to find his eyes sparkling. "What's going on?"
"Monday is a holiday. A holiday that you have off, and I have leave for. So, make sure you're packed for that too." He pulls away to kiss the tip of my nose. "I'm taking you away and surprising you."
Melting at his words, all I can really think about is Jake. "Thank you, Edward. But what about Jake?"
"Jake will be just fine for a few days by himself." A voice from the door startles us both, and we turn to find Jake looking at us. "You two go and have fun. Be safe and let me know you make it there in one piece."
"Jake, I didn't mean anything, I just—" I start, but he holds up a hand to cut me off.
"Go do your straight people thing. I'm a big boy, and I have some stuff to think over. Edward can fill you in. Have fun." He walks away with a smile and a wave, and I look back at Edward.
"When do we leave?"