Page 13 of Just My Puck
“I didn’t have time to decorate. I work a lot, so . . .”
I nod, still surveying the room. “And you live alone?” I’ve been meaning to confirm that. Even if it seems obvious with the way he offered a room without consulting anyone else, I also find it hard to believe. Caleb seems like a decent man, not to mention his good looks.
He offers a tight smile. “Yep, it’s just me. Like I said, I work a lot.”
“Gotcha.”
“Over there is the dining room and the kitchen,” he says, pointing to the back of the floor level. “I also have a patio. And downstairs is a family room.”
“It’s a very nice home. You have great taste.”
“My sister chose pretty much everything in this place,” he says with a chuckle. “I’ll make sure to pass along the compliment.”
I wander to the back of the dining room and discover a small but elegant kitchen, with sleek granite countertops and dark wood cabinetry that contrast beautifully beneath the warm under-cabinet lighting. Stainless steel appliances reflect the soft glow, adding a modern touch to the otherwise cozy space.
A kitchen island with two upholstered stools separates it from the dining area, where an oval wooden table dominates the center, surrounded by matching chairs.
“So, um, Jane, should I show you to your room? I’m guessing that’s what you’re most eager to see.”
Jane. I know that’s what we’re supposed to call me, but it feels weird, accepting a new name when you have no say in it. “Um, sure, thank you.”
I follow him up the stairs to a landing with two doors, one on each side.
He gestures to them. “These bedrooms have en suite bathrooms, and they’re both empty. You can choose the one you prefer.”
I hug my arms against my chest. “Where do you sleep?”
He tilts his chin to the last flight of stairs. “The master bedroom is on the top floor.”
I nod. “Okay.”
“Anyway, I’ll let you have a look while I grab you some clothes. I’m guessing you’re dying to get out of those.”
“I am.” I chuckle, thankful for his thoughtfulness. These skinny jeans are compression pants in disguise, I swear.
He jogs up the stairs, and I open the first door. It’s a white room with a large bed that looks pillowy soft. There’s a large built-in closet and a sliding door leading to a spectacular bathroom, where a large marble counter hosts two sinks accented by golden plumbing and a gilded mirror, as well as a massive shower. The countertop is also equipped with cotton pads, a wrapped toothbrush, toothpaste, and cotton tips. Even if I can’t be a hundred-percent sure, I don’t think I’ve ever been in such a fancy bathroom in my life.
I still have a peek at the other room, just in case, but the bathroom in the first one sold me.
“Have you decided?” Caleb asks, tramping back down the steps. I come out onto the landing.
“This room is amazing. Thank you again.”
“No problem. I just want to help.” He extends a small stack of folded shirts and sweats. “Here are some clothes. Full disclosure, they are mine and will obviously be too big for you, but as PJs, it won’t be too bad.”
I take the clothes he’s offering, and the clean cotton smell wraps me in a sense of comfort and safety. “I really appreciate everything you’re doing for me. You certainly didn’t have to. Hopefully, I’ll be out of your hair soon. Surely someone must be looking for me.”
He offers a kind smile. “I’m sure someone is. In the meantime, make yourself at home. And you can leave your old clothes by the door; I’ll wash them in the morning. Do you need anything else?”
“Oh, that’s very kind of you.And no, I’m all good, thanks. Just eager to get some sleep.”
“You and me both.” He chuckles, raking a hand through his dark hair. “Practice is going to sting tomorrow.”
I wince. “I’m so sorry. Let’s both get some rest, then. We’ll talk tomorrow.”
He nods. “Good night, Jane. Call me if you need anything.”
“G’nite, mate,” I say in a pirate accent before closing the door and cringing hard. Why did I say that? Ugh. Caleb’s laugh carries through the door, and I relax a little.
