Page 51 of Screamer
Did she just say what I think she said?
We haven’t said those words to each other yet. I debate on calling her back but decide against it. She’s at work. She probably said it out of reflex.
Yeah. Yeah, that’s it.
And if that isn’t it? I’d be the happiest I’ve ever been. I love her, too. I’ve chosen not to say it to her because I don’t want her to feel pressured. I promised her that I’m a patient man, and that we could take our relationship at her pace, and I won’t break that promise.
The rest of the way into town, I’m on cloud nine. I park downtown and go into the liquor store to pick up the kegs I ordered. Once those are loaded into the back of the truck, I walk to one of the shops down the street. I’m not a flashy man, and I’m unapologetically simple. That being said, tonight is special to Roxie, so I’m going to put in a little extra effort.
I purchase a new pair of jeans and a long-sleeved Henley. Satisfied that she’ll appreciate the small gesture, I make my way back to the truck. I’m sidetracked, though, when I spot the jeweler across the street. Diamonds sparkle in the display windows, and I find myself crossing the road and entering the store.
“Hello,” a woman greets. “How can I help you today?”
Feeling like a bull in a china shop, I glance around. “Not sure you can, really,” I admit. “Wasn’t planning on coming in here.”
“Well, feel free to look around, and if you find yourself needing assistance, let me know.”
“Thanks.”
I browse the cases of rings for what feels like hours, although it’s probably more like thirty minutes. The woman checks on me a few times but otherwise leaves me alone to contemplate what the fuck I’m doing.
I don’t even know if Roxie meant it when she said, ‘love you’. Shit, we’ve only been together for a few months. The problem with all of that is it doesn’t seem to matter one single iota.
I do love her. The more time I spend with her, the more I can’t fathom life without her. I claimed her before she was ready, so I won’t propose to her yet. Doesn’t hurt to be prepared, though.
Right?
“Can I see that one, please?” I ask, pointing to a ring that has a solitaire diamond nestled among a circle of black diamonds.
“Of course.”
When I return to the clubhouse, it’s with three kegs, a new outfit, and a very expensive engagement ring. Poker helps me carry in the beer, and as soon as it’s unloaded, I make a beeline for my room.
I tuck the black velvet ring box into a drawer and head to the shower.
“Love you, too, sweetheart,” I whisper to the empty room.
CHAPTER 25
ROXIE
Help.
“Shouldn’t you be going?”
I lift my head and set my pen on top of the stack of files I was going through. Linda leans her shoulder against the door jam, and she looks tired. It’s been a long day with two new intakes.
“I will in a minute,” I tell her. “Just wanna finish this up first.”
“Don’t stay too long. I know you’ve got big plans tonight.”
I smile at the reminder. “I do. But I got a text an hour ago that they got caught in standstill traffic due to an accident.”
“That sucks.”
“Tell me about it. I wish they would’ve flown. Their journey would’ve been more predictable. Anyway, I’ll be out of here in ten. Promise.”
“Okay. I’m gonna head out if you’re good to lock up. I’ve already checked on the shelter residents, and the evening staff are over on that side of the building. All you have to do is take care of the office area.”
