Page 14 of Rex

“It’s not that I don’t, but I do have stipulations,” I say. “I heard the story of how Pigeon watched Ivy through the shelter’s security system. I don’t want that type of invasive system here. If I want to run through my condo naked with scissors, I don’t want someone to be able to watch and video it.”

“Hearing that, I most definitely think she should have that system,” Reeves says with a smirk. “I would personally monitor that camera 24/7 just to ensure your sister’s safety.”

“Shut it, Reeves,” Rex snaps.

“Just saying it wouldn’t be a hardship,” Reeves mutters.

“I get what you’re saying, Aria. Let’s have Rex explain the differences between the systems and make a decision that will keep you safe but not intrude on your privacy,” Drew suggests.

“Okay,” I mutter.

“Give me a day or so to go over the specs and get back to you with some options,” Rex says, looking pointedly at me.

“Okay,” I repeat, briefly meeting Rex’s eyes.

Within moments, Rex and Reeves left my home. Silence reigns for a moment before Drew stands to leave also. Turning to face him, I again thank God for bringing him back into my life.

“I better get moving. Lucy’s parents are holding dinner for me and her to get there,” Drew states with a grin.

“You just ate a… Never mind. I almost forgot who I was talking to. Love you,” I say while accepting a kiss on my cheek.

I close the door behind my brother and secure the locks. I clean up the food containers, grab a bottle of water, and collapse on my sofa. What a shit show this evening’s been. After a few minutes of feeling sorry for myself, I pull myself up and head for my bedroom. I also promise myself that I will not be home when Chubs and Rex return to install the new system.

Leaving the lights off in the bedroom, I brush my teeth by the nightlight in my bathroom. When my nighttime routine is completed, I quickly change into a t-shirt and sleep shorts. Double-checking my alarm, I crawl into bed and sit leaning against the headboard. Picking up the remote, I turn the TV on and flip to the season I’m rewatching of The Challenge. I settle in and let my mind get absorbed with the antics of the competitors.

When my phone chimes with an incoming text, I pick it up to see Rex’s name.

Rex: Are you still awake?

Me: Yeah. I just got in bed though.

Rex: I know tonight was awkward for you. Sorry. I thought Chubs had already told you he asked me to stop by.

Me: He didn’t. It’s fine though.

Rex: We still need to have a chat about Saturday night.

Me: No, we don’t. Nothing happened. Goodnight.

Rex: We both woke up naked, Aria. Something happened.

Me: I don’t remember anything. Goodnight.

I set my phone down and ignore the incoming texts. After the episode I was watching ends, I turn off the TV and roll onto my side. I lay there far longer than I want to before sleep takes over.

Chapter 5

Rex

I’m going through the various pieces needed for a couple of different kinds of security camera setups when the others arrive for work. I can hear Pigeon giving Reeves shit and Horse laughing as they stop by the storeroom’s open door.

“You’re here early, boss. What’s up for today?” Pigeon asks.

“I put the work orders on your desks. Reeves, you get Horse today so teach him the latest system we’ve got in. Pigeon, you have one quick install and then monitor duty,” I answer, without looking up from what I’m doing.

“Wait! That’s bullshit! I had Horse yesterday. Why do I get him again today?” Reeves loudly protests.

“Because I like you the least,” I reply.

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