Chapter 43 Early knock-off
Early knock-off
Tonight is our Friday family dinner and I’m feeling excited that Camille agreed to come.
I’m still at work but I’m planning on actually knocking off early today.
Since hiring more people, it’s taken so much of the weight off me.
I’m feeling proud of myself for trying to make more time for me lately. And maybe more time with Camille too.
“Hey Ty, let’s start to pack up mate. I’m bloody ready for the weekend.” I say to Tyler.
“Yeah, sounds good Emerson.” He replies as he tucks his hammer into his tool belt.
“So what’s happening with you and Dani?” I ask as we start to pack up. I’ve been meaning to talk to him about it since the other weekend but keep forgetting to.
“I dunno man. Sometimes I feel like she might let me in, then she just pulls back. She’s going back to Sydney soon, so I think in her head she doesn’t think it’s worth even trying. But mate, I’d follow that girl anywhere if she gave me a chance. She drives me crazy, but in the best way. You know?”
I nod. I get it. I appreciate that we can talk like this—openly, honestly—even though I’m technically his boss. He’s like a brother to me.
Camille’s gutted about Danielle leaving.
She can keep staying with me, though. That part I know for sure. I’ll support whatever she wants, even if that choice isn’t me.
I pat him on the shoulder. “I’m sorry, brother. Maybe just keep trying? You’ll get through to her eventually.” I suggest. But who knows with Danielle. She’s open, loud and fun, seems like she really liked him. But from what Camille says, she’s not open about love and terrified of commitment.
“Yeah, maybe.” He sounds unconvinced. “What about you and Camille? I’ve seen you guys lately y’know.” Of course he has. We haven’t really been hiding it. We just haven’t put a label on it.
“She’s amazing,” I admit. “I want to be with her. But I’m not rushing anything, just taking it slow.
She’s still working through a lot, but every day I can feel her letting her walls down, bit by bit.
” I take a breath and end the conversation by saying, “Let’s go, mate,” and we head off the job site.
I drive us home, and when I get there, I see I’ve got a text from Cam.
Camille: Will be leaving work in a hour. Let me know if I need to grab anything from the shop on my way home. See you soon xx
Me: All good, I’m home now and I got everything sorted. See you xxxx
Perfect. She’ll be home soon.
Once I’m inside, I head straight out to the gym for a quick workout, then jump in the shower.
I throw on some denim shorts and a white T-shirt, simple and clean.
I chill out on the couch while I wait for Camille to get home.