* * *
This is what I was dreading, but I was already preparing for it.
Yesterday, Devlin had helped me replace the things that I would need, but I’d also put my foot down and only allowed him to buy me what I felt was necessary. My next check is less than a week away, so at that point, I can purchase more.
However, it’s now the following morning, and I’m dressed and prepared to leave the penthouse for work. Devlin’s currently backtracking on his agreement that I can take the subway alone. I’m already late since I’d forgotten to set my new phone’s alarm last night. I’d been distracted by Devlin, his arms wrapped around me as we’d fallen asleep. We haven’t had sex since he’d taken my virginity the night before, but I think it’s because he’s being careful not to move too fast for fear of scaring me off.
I fold my arms over my chest and stare him down. “You agreed,” I say levelly.
“You said so yourself that you’re late. It’s several blocks to the nearest station. Let Aiden drive you today,” he insists.
He has a point, but if I cave this once, he’s going to think he can get away with it every morning. This calls for a compromise. “I will take a cab,” I say sourly.
His brows furrow. “Why pay for a cab when you can be driven to work free of charge?”
“You’re my reason.”
“I didn’t say you can’t ever ride the subway.”
I shake my head at him. “I need to go.”
“Do you need cab fare?”
The look I give him has him backing up a step, a muscle throbbing in his cheek. He visibly draws in a deep breath and exhales before he gives me a tight smile. “Have a good day.”
I eye him. He looks displeased, but that’s life. We’re going to have these skirmishes until we both adjust to living with each other. “You too,” I say before I turn and walk out of the main room and head for the elevator. Thankfully, he doesn’t follow me.
There’s always cabs on the street in front of the hotel, and it’s easy to flag one down and show the address of the library on my new phone. Then, I sit back in the seat and begin text messaging Keagan. I’d had a short conversation with him yesterday, but today, I want to check in with him again. The smoke had affected him more than it had me, and it’s taking him a bit longer to recover. How are you feeling this morning?
While I wait, I gaze out the window, watching the buildings pass by and the pedestrians on the crowded sidewalks. The phone vibrates in my hand, and I read his response. Much better. Have you thought about killing him in his sleep yet?
He’s referring to Devlin. He’s aware that I’ve agreed to live at the penthouse, but he also knows how frustrated the man makes me. I make a face and type, Tempting, but no. I’m on my way to work.
Yeah, I gotta start looking for a new job. I’m going to miss you, girl.
My heart aches over not seeing Keagan as much anymore. I’m sorry you’re out of a job.
Eh, it’s all good. Kade gave me a two-week severance check and a generous bonus for losing my stuff in the fire. I’ll be fine until I can find something permanent.
His text brings a smile to my face. Devlin’s always been generous with his wealth, and I’m glad that Keagan is benefiting from it. I bet Lance is thrilled to have you back.
Absolutely. Not getting much sleep around here. ;)
I bet, I text with a chuckle.
You getting much sleep?
I know what he’s asking, and my body warms. I’m wanting to be with Devlin again, and tonight, I am going to let him know. Some, I text.
He good to you?
Yes, very much so.
Good.
Can we meet up for lunch sometime? I’m almost to the library.
Text me a day and time, and I will be there.
I smile and tuck my phone in my purse.