“Thank you, Noelle.” I smiled as I handed her the hundred-dollar bill.
“You’re welcome, Mr. Parker.”
Chapter Twenty-One
Emerson
I awoke to the morning sun beaming through the window. Rolling over, I stared at the beauty of the vineyards that graced the area.
“Hi, Emily. Mom and Dad. I’m doing okay. I’m here in Napa, sis. Just like we always talked about. It’s so beautiful here. Well, from what I can see out the window. I just got in last night and haven’t had a chance to explore yet, but I will as soon as I get some coffee and get dressed. Give me a sign that you’re here with me.”
Climbing out of bed, I showered, got dressed, and popped a k-cup in the Keurig they so graciously provided in the room. As the coffee filled the cup, there was a knock on the door.
“Room service.”
I frowned. They must have the wrong room. Opening the door, I froze when I saw Alex standing there with a cart.
“Alex, what the?—”
“Good morning, Emerson.” The corners of his mouth curved into a smile.
“What are you doing here?”
“I brought you breakfast. I hope you haven’t eaten already.”
“You came all the way from Malibu to bring me breakfast?”
“Something like that.” He winked. “Are you going to let me in, or will we stand here and debate while our breakfast gets cold.”
I waved my hand and stepped aside, letting him inside the cottage. I couldn’t help but let out a light laugh as I watched him wheel the cart in.
“What’s so funny?”
“You. Wheeling that cart in like you’re the help. How did you know where I was?”
“I have my ways, Emerson. Since you refused to tell me last night, I had no choice but to do some digging on my own. Now come and eat.”
“What if I don’t want you here?” I asked as I narrowed my eyes at him.
“You do.” He smirked.
“No, actually, I don’t. Do you not remember our conversation yesterday?”
“Yes. I remember it well. Now sit down and eat.”
I walked over to the table where he had set the plates of food. He removed the metal cover, revealing a plate of eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, and toast. He picked up the carafe and poured coffee into the white ceramic mug.
“Thank you,” I spoke as I sat down.
“You’re welcome.”
Placing the napkin on my lap, I looked at Alex.
“You shouldn’t have come.”
“Why not?”
“Did it ever occur to you that I left to get away from you?”