She snickered. “Please tell that man I said hello and that I would very much like to tag along on a date soon. I miss you.”
Even though Emily and I worked the same days and saw each other on the nights I stayed at our apartment, which were becoming less and less frequent, we still didn’t spend as much time together as we used to.
And I felt that as hard as she did.
“The second I tell Jordan, he’ll be texting you from my phone, inviting you over, so why don’t you just plan to come to his condo later after we leave his office.”
She yawned. “Rain check for tomorrow night? I’m truly going to make love to that pizza and sleep for the next twelve hours.” She released my hand and tucked her legs to her chest.
“Of course. But don’t bail on us tomorrow night.”
“I promise I won’t.”
I wrapped my arms around her and hugged her against me. “See you at work tomorrow.”
“Yes, you will, girlfriend. I’ll bring you some leftover pizza for lunch.”
“You’re the best.”
I released her, and as I was walking to the door, I heard, “No overnight bag?”
I looked at her over my shoulder. “I’ve been keeping a few things at his place.”
Her eyes widened, her grin the largest it had been all night. “Ohhh.We’re there, are we?”
“I’m not moving in with him—”
“Sure you’re not.”
“I—”
“I fucking love it, and you better be moving in with him soon.” She nodded toward the door. “Now, go see your man.”
I held on to the doorframe and said, “I love you,” before I rushed through the kitchen and went out into the hallway and down to the first floor, where Jordan’s driver was parked outside.
He held the back seat door open for me and said, “Good evening, Miss Nolan,” as I approached.
I climbed in. “Hi, Bruce. Thanks for coming to get me.”
“It’s my pleasure.” He shut the door and got in the driver’s seat. “We’ll be at the office in about ten to fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. Let me know if you want the music softer or louder, or if I can adjust the temperature in here.”
“Everything is perfect as is,” I told him and pulled out my phone.
“If that changes, don’t be afraid to let me know.”
“I appreciate it, Bruce.”
On the screen was a text from Jordan, telling me Bruce had arrived to get me, and another message from my mom.
Mom:I just spoke to the landlord. He said you paid this month’s rent and next month’s.
Me:I’m trying to get ahead so I can slow down on the double shifts.
Mom:I hate that you’re working so much.
Me:Me too.
Mom:You’ve always taken such good care of me.