Chapter Eight
EIGHT
Aidan
I’m smiling like an idiot at my phone screen. I can’t help it. The comment I just read is awesome.
Okay, @ShakespeareInLust. It’s official. You’ve unleashed a new kink for me. I had no idea that “Don’t fucking touch her” and “You’re going to die for hurting her” could get me so hot! AMAZING!
I don’t always reply to comments on Scribble Share, but tonight I have some free time before I head to the gym with Jason for a late-evening workout.
But more than that, reading this person’s comment made me chuckle. And it feels really good to laugh after the crappy day at work I had.
Aww really? I’m thrilled to hear that. Gotta love a hero who isn’t afraid to throw down for his lady! Also, I adore your name. Hermia is one of my favorite characters from A Midsummer Night’s Dream :)
I can’t help but smile. HotForHermia is really clever and cute.
I stand up from my couch and head to my kitchen to grab a quick snack. I’m demolishing a granola bar when I see that Hermia replied to my comment.
Hot4Hermia: OMFG YES! The “touch her and die” trope is one of my favorites! I am *trash* for it! And really? You’re team Hermia? A lot of the people who’ve read A Midsummer Night’s Dream tend to sympathize with Helena more than Hermia
ShakespeareInLust: One hundred percent team Hermia. I mean, nothing against Helena. They both get put through the ringer. I feel for the two of them. I just always thought Hermia was the prettier name. I know that’s probably really weird and random.
Hot4Hermia: Not at all! I think so too! Haha look at us geeking out about Shakespeare LOL
ShakespeareInLust: Shakespeare FTW!
I hit Reply and immediately wish I hadn’t. I sound like a loser. And then I notice we’re taking over the entire comment section with our conversation. That must be really annoying for everyone who’s not part of this conversation.
I navigate to the Message option of Scribble Share and type out a message to Hot4Hermia.
ShakespeareInLust: Hey! I figured it would be better to continue geeking out about Shakespeare via DM, we were kind of taking over the comment section with our conversation haha
Hot4Hermia: Oops haha. Good call :)
Hot4Hermia: Speaking of geeking out, I just have to say, I adore your stories. You’re an incredible writer. I didn’t think anyone could turn Shakespearean tragedies into compelling fanfic with happily-ever-afters, but you are so good at it. I’m seriously addicted to your writing. Whenever I have a bad or stressful day at work, reading your stories makes me feel better instantly. So thank you for that :)
For a second, I just stare at my phone screen, blown away at this person’s compliment. Work was a shit show today, and I’ve been in a low mood the rest of the day because of it. Reading this person’s message was the boost I didn’t know I needed.
Before I can type a response, she sends another message.
Hot4Hermia: I hope that wasn’t totally weird that I said all that! I probably sound like a psycho fangirl. I promise I’m not! LOL
I laugh as I type a message in return.
ShakespeareInLust: First of all, don’t even worry, I don’t think you’re a psycho. And second, thank you. That was honestly one of the kindest things anyone has said to me. It made my day :)
Hot4Hermia: Really?
ShakespeareInLust: Really :)
It’s not till my face starts to ache that I realize how wide I’m smiling. Whoever this person is has totally turned around my night. I came home all stressed and pissed from that argument with Micah this morning, and now my mood has changed completely.
ShakespeareInLust: I had a terrible day at work and you turned it around. Thank you for doing that.
Hot4Hermia: You’re welcome :)
Hot4Hermia: And sorry to hear about the crummy day at work. That always sucks :(
ShakespeareInLust: Ehhh it’s okay, it happens. Writing on Scribble Share has been a helpful way to decompress honestly.
Hot4Hermia: If it makes you feel any better, work sucked for me too today
ShakespeareInLust: Shoot, really? I’m sorry
ShakespeareInLust: Are you dealing with an annoying boss? Did they dump a bunch of work on you?
Hot4Hermia: Nothing like that thankfully, just the coworker from hell
ShakespeareInLust: Wow, really? Me too
ShakespeareInLust: Annoying coworkers are THE WORST
Hot4Hermia: No way, you too?!
ShakespeareInLust: Yuuuupppp
Hot4Hermia: UGH
ShakespeareInLust: UGH is correct
Hot4Hermia: This person is just… I don’t know if I’ve ever met anyone so obnoxious. Just fights me every step of the way when I’m just trying to do my job
ShakespeareInLust: I’m sorry you’re going through that. I can relate, it’s a frustrating and maddening feeling.
Hot4Hermia: It is!
Hot4Hermia: But it feels nice to vent a bit about it, so thanks for that :)
ShakespeareInLust: Of course! I’m always here to vent and complain about coworkers from hell :)
My phone buzzes with a text. It’s Jason telling me he’s on his way to the gym. Shoot. I’m gonna be late to meet him.
ShakespeareInLust: Sorry, but I’m late meeting my friend, so I should go. Just didn’t want you to think I’m ghosting you!
Hot4Hermia: No worries. Have fun with your friend! And I hope tomorrow is a better day for you!
ShakespeareInLust: Thanks! I hope the same for you!
Hot4Hermia: And I also hope that we get another hot story from you soon! I’m dying for it! No pressure though :)
ShakespeareInLust: Promise I’ll post again soon! Have a good night!
Hot4Hermia: You too!
I grab my wallet from the kitchen counter, head out the door to my garage, and hop into my car. The whole car ride to the gym, I’m smiling.