Page 19 of Room for Three

Me: Can you pick me up at ten or is that too late? Tonight is my first full shift. Last night was training. If it’s too late, I can catch a ride home.

Cole: I’ll be there. Looks like we’ll watch that movie this weekend. Have a good day, sweetheart.

Sweetheart?

I blush at the pet name. He’s called me sweetheart many times over the years, but it’s the first time since becoming an adult. It hits different. I don’t hate it, that’s for sure.

Another text I missed is from Addison. We messaged a bit last night, both of us happy to reconnect. I must’ve missed her most recent text during the movie.

Addison: Mom said she told the social worker they’re free to foster another kid. I just got my room back. I hate this.

She sent me several sour face emojis.

Me: Maybe one of the boys can get the next one.

Addison: Yeah, right. Dad says girls are easier than boys and that he’s not allowing some strange boy in our house. That means another girl to share my room with. We both know she won’t be as cool as you, Sav.

Me: You always wanted a little sister. Maybe this is your chance.

Addison: My thoughts exactly! I told them this. They both said no. Older is easier. Ugh. Can I move in with you?

I laugh at her question, earning Travis’s gaze my way. Glancing up at him, I shrug. He rakes his eyes over me but quickly darts them back to the computer. I’m wondering if my confession last night has made things awkward for him. I hope not.

Me: There’s a lot of testosterone around here. I miss my roomie. Pack a bag and hitch a ride to me.

Addison: I wish. But then who would pay for my nails?

Me: I guess me. Your girl got a job.

Addison: WHAT?! WHERE?

Me: Smoke & Sugar. I’m a hostess but will fill in if we have any waitresses out. You’d like it. Super bougie.

It feels good to talk to my friend. I’m so caught up in it, I lose track of time. Brayden texts me.

Brayden: Waiting outside. No rush.

He’s being nice, though. I have to rush, or we’ll be late.

“Oh my God,” I squeak out before chugging the rest of my now cool coffee. “I’m going to be late.”

Travis, attention glued on the screen, grunts.

“Don’t look,” I tell him as I tug at the hem of my shirt.

He jerks his head my way, sees that I’m removing my shirt, and snaps his head back so hard I’m shocked he doesn’t break his neck. I bite back a laugh at his reaction. It’s empowering to know I can get under their skin.

“I can leave,” Travis growls. “Or you could go to the bathroom.”

“Or you could just not look.” I toss my shirt at him. It lands on his head. “I trust you.”

He snatches it off his head and huffs. Travis is a good man, though, and keeps his eyes averted. I quickly throw on a bra, black crop top, and a pair of leggings. After I pull on socks and shoes, I spritz on my perfume and throw some mascara on my lashes.

“Gotta go,” I say, rushing over to him. “Cole’s going to pick me up after work.”

“Bye, little S. Don’t do that shit again.”

His threat doesn’t have much bite. I give him a quick hug before snatching my backpack and phone. When I exit the bedroom, I plow right into Cole’s sweaty chest. Hisbare, sweaty chest.

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