Page 13 of Room One Hundred and Twenty

Rather, my life was boring and quiet. Well, as boring as one could make it. I lost count of how many times I walked through the quiet neighborhood, strolling through until I reached Nicolas’ home. Whenever I needed time away from my parents, he was the one to take me in without ever questioning me twice. Even before we became a couple, we shared so many nights together.

To think I’ve yet to find anything similar since. Such happiness hasn’t had the chance to come my way. Though, that’s mostly my fault. I haven’t exactly tried to look.

I’ve lost count of how many times Charity has invited me out to socialize. As single as I am, she’s put in plenty of effort to meet the guy meant for her. Despite her effort to drag me along, I hardly ever agree to join her.

Maybe I should change that. With everything going so well, maybe I’m in need of a celebration. Some shared drinks and some socializing might do me some good. Plus, there was hardly anything good where we came from. Charity might enjoy not going to some rustic bar with the same twenty people sharing the same drunken stories.

That, and I can enjoy entering a business without gaining any unwanted attention while listening to the soft murmurs of gossip.

Making my mind up, I twist around, make my way out of my apartment, and head straight for the third floor.

Reaching Charity’s apartment, it takes all but three knocks before she tugs the door open. Looking delighted to see me, she’s all but dragging me inside.

Boxes are littered across the floor, half unpacked. Despite two weeks passing since our arrival to the city, she’s yet to completely settle by the looks of it.

The woman all but floats across her home before she sinks against the couch against the wall. Jake happily agreed to assist in furnishing her home to aid in getting her here.

“I know I’ve said it a thousand times before,” she breathes in heavily, “but this is amazing. I don’t know how you did it but look at us. Thank you, Eloise. From the deepest part of my heart,thank you.”

Scoffing under my breath, I step over her belongings and make myself comfortable at her side.

“Nothing to thank me for. I wouldn’t be here without you.” Having said the very same thing over and over again in the past, I straighten up. “You know, I came over here to see if you were busy.”

One look at the half-eaten Chinese takeout and the paused show on the television answers my question.

“It’s Friday night and I was hoping you’d like to hit the city. Maybe a club of some sort. I don’t know, I need a distraction.”

Charity lifts a brow, curious of my words. Of course, I can’t go telling her my ties with one of the men who are in charge of the business we now work for.

“I’d like to enjoy one night without stressing about whether or not I’m going to no longer be able to keep my business afloat. Let’s go have fun.”

Eyes lighting up, she leans toward me and squeezes my hand. “I have never in my life wanted to hear those words from you more than I do right now.”

Just like that, she’s on her feet. Getting a good look at me, her nose scrunches.

“We’re going to need to get you something a bit more appealing.” Beckoning me to follow, she leads me to her room. Assuming I don’t own anything nice, she insists on helping me out.

One thing she has completely unpacked is her closet. One look and I can see how opposite our tastes are.

“I know we’re not the same in sizes here, but maybe we can make something work.” When she starts plucking out dresses, I know she already has a goal in mind. The same goal as always.

Knowing how demanding she’ll be if I don’t try to pick up at least one guy here and get a true taste of city life, I cave and start trying on whatever she throws my way.

“I have not gone clubbing in ages.” Vibrating where she stands, Charity radiates with excitement. It’s a breath of fresh air. This is a new start for both of us.

While I might have my own set of problems, I know she has her list. Without needing to worry about looking over her shoulder every time she slips out of her home, she can act a bit more carefree now.

After trying on a few different options, I settle on a cocktail dress with a golden shimmer to it. A little tight in the chest, Charity rolls her eyes at me as I pluck at the fabric. Despite the smile tugging on her lips, she looks me up and down approvingly.

“We are not coming home together.” The way she says the words, she’s insinuating thatI’llbe the one to pull in someone. Doubtful, but I appreciate her optimism. Helps boost my confidence.

While she readies herself, I try to fix up the rest of my appearance. There’s only so much I can do to fix the bags beneath my eyes or the thick curls that fight the summer heat, but I try nonetheless. The thought of gettinganysort of action does sound pretty nice.

I’ve let far too much time pass by without giving myself any attention.

While I’m working on getting us a ride, she hunts down a location. The bigger the better, the more chance of being successful according to her. I don’t complain. All I want is loud music and a drink or two.

Before I know it, we’re off.

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