Page 28 of Crude Heir

“At least the power hasn’t gone out on this side of the highway,” she says, sounding more carefree as she unbuckles the seat belt.

“We’ll still have to take the stairs.” I climb out then grab my laptop bag. “I’m sure you don’t want to end up stuck in an elevator until the power’s back.”

She’s wearing a pained expression as she comes around the back of the SUV. I try not to laugh as we head toward the stairs. It’s an old building, but it’s been well maintained. As expected, we make it up without seeing anyone. Most of the residents are in the energy business, so they’re gone for the long weekend.

I hold the door, allowing her to go by, then usher her down the hall to the apartment. Letting us in, I set my bag down on the coffee table.

“I’ll give you a quick tour,” I say, breaking the silence. “Kitchen and living area.” I gesture across the open space to the bare brick wall facing the highway. “To the left is a small washer and dryer next to the closet.” Then, with nowhere else to go, Istep across the hall. “And through this door, the bedroom.” I walk in, avoiding looking at the king-sized bed. “The bathroom is through there.”

Nicole just nods, clearly self-conscious about the sleeping arrangements. “Nice place.”

“Well, considering they’re housing me while the project is on hold.” I shrug.

“It’s bigger than my place.” She gives a wry smile. “I wouldn’t be able to have a bed that size.” She backs out of the room.

Meanwhile, I’m left with an image of her in her room…on her bed. That’s all I need to have my cock pushing against my zipper. A knock at the door offers a timely distraction.

My phone buzzes. I look down at the screen and grimace. I hesitate but know if I don’t answer, she’ll just keep calling or even come over unannounced. “Would you mind getting the door while I get this?”

“Sure.” Nicole walks away while I stand in the doorway and answer the phone.

I should have expected my mother to try again when I saw the missed call after we made it to the garage. No doubt she’s checking that I’m alright, but considering I have a woman I’d want to back into the room and spread out onto my bed, she’s the last person I want to talk to.

I blow out a breath and bring the phone to my ear. “Hey.”

“Derrick.” She exhales, relieved. “I’ve been so worried with the storm. Are you okay?”

“I’m good,” I reply flatly. “I assume you’re safe.” I don’t ask if she’s alone. Ever since Keith went in the hospital, they’ve been inseparable.

“Yes.” A cheerful note creeps into her voice. “Did you make it home? Is your power out?”

“I just walked into the apartment.” Best not to say anything about Nicole. “The power’s on here, but the office is dark.”

“Did everyone make it out alright?” she asks, concerned. Ever the executive secretary, she has to worry about staff members.

“I sent the guys in the control room home so they wouldn’t get stranded then I left.”

“Alright, well, I just wanted to check on you.” That note in her tone makes me think she wants to say more but decides against it. I’m sure it’s for the best.

“Good night.” My tone is clipped so she doesn’t keep going.

“Stay safe.”

With that, I end the call and push away from the doorframe. “My mother,” I mutter to Nicole, annoyed that I feel as if I have to explain myself.

“It’s nice that she cares so much,” Nicole offers politely.

I just nod, shoving the phone into my pocket. Should I ask if she needs to check in on anyone? Parents, neighbor, boyfriend… A jab of unwelcome jealousy has me giving her a sharp look. I can’t imagine she doesn’t have some asshole trailing after her. But then, why the hell was my name on her lips when she came? And why does the thought of that unknown man make the acid in my stomach churn?

“Are you ready to eat?” she asks, in that nervous manner of hers.

The image of her crawling across the bed the other night fills my mind. Telling her exactly what I’d like to eat would get her even more flustered, so I’ll keep my damn mouth shut about it.

“Sure.” I nod. “Let me get some soft drinks from the fridge.” By the time I come back, she has both subs on the table with a bag of chips and a napkin next to each.

“Do you have a place you prefer to sit?” She looks across the table as she stands behind the nearest chair.

“No. Sometimes I’m busy or I watch TV while I’m eating.” I get settled. “Do you want to watch something?” I point to the flat screen. Only now realizing the cable might be out.

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